Bupropion (Zyban)

This is an antidepressant that has been found to help people with nicotine withdrawal. It is a pill that requires a medical prescription. It needs to be started before your quit date, usually 7-10 days before, as it takes time to build up in your bloodstream.

It should not be taken if you are pregnant, breast feeding, have a history of seizures, anorexia or bulimia, taking MAO inhibitors (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), or are allergic to bupropion hydrochloride. Caution is also advised if you are alcohol dependent, taking St John’s wort or on SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) antidepressants. The most common side effects are: dry mouth and insomnia.

Buproprion may be used in combination with either the nicotine patch or nicotine chewing pieces.

Bupropion is not a magic pill, but it can help control carvings and withdrawal. Like other medications for quitting smoking, it should be used in combination with a behavioural treatment as found in self help material or as directed by a counsellor. It is important to set a clear quit date, usually 7 to 10 days from beginning the pill, and to make a strong commitment to quit.

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