If you have tried to quit smoking cold turkey, tried nicotine patches and nasal sprays and have still been unsuccessful, a non-nicotine smoking cessation treatment like Zyban may work for you. Unlike nicotine patches and gum, Zyban does not contain nicotine and is non-addictive, making it easier to quit smoking for good.
Function
Zyban, known generically as "bupropion," is an antidepressant and anti-smoking aid manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Zyban is available only by a doctor's prescription. Unlike smoking cessation aids such as nicotine patches or gum, Zyban should be used for one week before quitting smoking to help the body adjust to the medication. Zyban should not, however, be used in conjunction with any other nicotine supplements, like nicotine inhalers or chewing tobacco.
Time Frame
The doctor who prescribes Zyban will determine how long the medication should be used, but it is generally prescribed for five to seven weeks. Zyban should be taken at the same time every day, and can be taken with or without food. If nausea occurs while taking Zyban, the medication should be taken after a meal. If the patient misses a dose, the forgotten dose should be skipped and Zyban should be taken as usual for each following dose.
Considerations
Zyban should not be taken by pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. Patients should inform their doctor about any other medication they are taking before using Zyban. Mixing Zyban with other prescription medications, including diet pills, blood pressure medication, heart medication, cancer medication, anti-malaria pills, birth control pills, oral diabetes medications, ulcer medications, antibiotics, anti-nausea medications and asthma medications may cause unnecessary side effects and decrease the effectiveness of the medication.
Types
Zyban is manufactured in both time-release and standard doses. The Mayo Clinic suggests following the doctor's dosage recommendations, although the standard recommended dosage for Zyban is 150 mg once per day, to be taken in the morning. If the patient does not feel the effects of the medication, a doctor may increase the prescription of Zyban. The maximum recommended dosage (according to the Mayo Clinic) is 200 mg of Zyban, twice per day.
Effects
Side effects of Zyban may include anxiety, changes in mood, feeling agitated, depressed feelings and thoughts, headaches, ringing in the ears and allergic skin reactions. More severe side effects include hallucinations, sweating, nervousness, insomnia, drowsiness, seizures, aggression, difficulty concentrating, fever, feeling faint, distrust and confusion. Effects of Zyban overdose include vomiting, nausea and loss of consciousness. All side effects should be reported to a doctor. Individuals who are feeling depressed or suicidal should call 911 or 1 (800) SUICIDE immediately.
