1. Nicotine's Antidepressant Effect
Nicotine causes the release of dopamine in the brain, which makes people feel good, temporarily. This is reinforcing and can lead to dependence on nicotine. Some people may be unknowingly self-medicating depressed feelings by smoking or chewing tobacco. It can be helpful to undergo a professional assessment for depression. Be prepare--if you quit smoking that you may experience depression.
2. Antidepressants--One Type of Smoking Cessation Therapy
In addition to nicotine replacement therapies, such as nicotine gum, lozenges, skin patches, nasal sprays and inhalers, there are several non-nicotine medications that can help you quit smoking; among them are antidepressants. Bupropion (Zyban) was approved by the FDA in 1996 as a treatment for nicotine addiction. Antidepressants can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and increase the level of dopamine in the brain. They also help reduce cravings for nicotine. Using antidepressants to quit smoking doubles your odds of being able to quit. Using antidepressants in combination with nicotine replacement drugs can increase success rates even more.
3. Antidepressants Are Not Habit-Forming
Antidepressants may help lessen the chance of depression in withdrawal from nicotine, but they won't make you high and are not habit-forming drugs. Most people take Bupropion for about 3 months, but some stay on it for up to 6 months to help maintain abstinence from nicotine. It's helpful to start taking antidepressants a few weeks before you quit smoking.
4. Antidepressants Have Some Side Effects
The most common side effects of Bupropion include trouble sleeping and dry mouth. Those who have had seizures, head trauma, skull fractures or an eating disorder should not use Bupropion to quit smoking. Also those who already take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (another form of antidepressant) should not take this drug.
5. Quitting Smoking Requires Plenty of Support
Success in quitting smoking requires diligence and commitment. Antidepressants can be helpful to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, but additional support may be needed. Discuss local programs and options with your doctor or call the National Cancer Institute at 800-QUITNOW.
