Indications
Zyban is a prescription medication primarily used as an aid to quit smoking. It can decrease your nicotine withdrawal symptoms (such as irritability, anxiety, restlessness) and your urge to smoke. Quitting smoking decreases your risk of heart and lung disease, as well as cancer. In addition, it is an antidepressant medication that may also be used to treat depression, seasonal affective disorder, and other mental/mood disorders.
Zyban contains the active ingredient bupropion, which is an antidepressant medication that affects the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters, including dopamine and norepinephrine, are involved in regulating feelings of reward, pleasure, and mood, as well as addiction and cravings. By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, Zyban may help to reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking. Additionally, Zyban may help to decrease the reinforcing effects of nicotine on the brain, making it easier to quit smoking.
Uses and Dosage
To quit smoking, Zyban tablets should be taken orally with or without food twice a day, as directed by your doctor. The tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed as doing so may release all the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects. If you experience stomach upset, taking the medication with food may help.
Start taking bupropion at least 1 week before your planned quit date, so that the drug can reach a high enough level in your blood. You should set a date for quitting and stop smoking sometime in the second week of taking the drug. To decrease your risk of seizure, take your doses at least 8 hours apart or as directed by your doctor. You should not take your evening dose too close to bedtime as it may cause trouble sleeping.
The dosage of Zyban is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. To limit side effects, your dose may be slowly increased, and you should not take more or less medication or take it more frequently than prescribed. Taking more than the recommended dose of bupropion may increase your risk of having a seizure. To get the most benefit from Zyban, use it regularly and at the same time each day.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Zyban (Bupropion Hydrochloride):
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Fast heartbeats
- Feeling anxious or nervous
- Headache
- Hearing problems
- Hostility
- Joint pain
- Nausea
- Rash
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Stuffy nose
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Vision problems
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Zyban (Bupropion Hydrochloride):
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Eye pain or swelling
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Feeling extremely happy or irritable
- Increased energy
- Racing thoughts
- Reckless behavior
- Seeing halos around lights
- Severe problems with sleep
- Talking more than usual and
- Tunnel vision
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
Form and Strength
Zyban (Bupropion Hydrochloride) is available in the following forms and strength:
Zyban: Tablet
- 150 mg
Caution
- Zyban may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in some people, particularly those who have a history of depression or other mental health conditions. Inform a healthcare provider of any history of mental health conditions before taking Zyban.
- Zyban may cause changes in behavior or mood, such as aggressive or hostile behavior, agitation, anxiety, or irritability. If any of these symptoms occur, contact a healthcare provider.
- Zyban may cause seizures in some people, especially those who have a history of seizures or a medical condition that lowers the seizure threshold. Inform a healthcare provider of any history of seizures before taking Zyban.
- Zyban may interact with other medications, including other antidepressant medications or medications used to treat certain medical conditions. Inform a healthcare provider of any other medications being taken before starting Zyban.
- Zyban may cause allergic reactions in some people, which can include symptoms such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. Seek medical attention immediately if any of these symptoms occur while taking Zyban.
- Zyban may cause high blood pressure, monitor blood pressure regularly while taking the medication.
- Zyban may cause confusion or difficulty concentrating, which may affect ability to drive or operate machinery. Use caution when engaging in activities that require mental alertness until the effects of the medication are known.
- Zyban may cause weight loss or appetite suppression, which may be of concern for some people.
- Zyban may cause dry mouth, which can contribute to tooth decay or gum disease if not properly managed through good oral hygiene practices.
- Zyban may cause sleep disturbances, including insomnia or unusual dreams. Inform a healthcare provider if these symptoms occur or persist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there anyone who should not take Zyban?
Zyban should not be taken by individuals with a history of seizures, eating disorders, or bipolar disorder. It should also not be taken by those who are currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or have taken them within the past two weeks.
How long should you take Zyban?
The standard treatment course for Zyban is usually seven to twelve weeks. However, this may vary depending on your individual circumstances and response to treatment.
Does Zyban cause weight gain?
Zyban is not associated with weight gain, and in some cases may even lead to weight loss due to its appetite suppressant effects.
Can Zyban be used for anything other than smoking cessation?
Yes, Zyban is also approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder.
How should Zyban be stored?
Zyban should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture, and out of reach of children.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/zyban-drug.htm
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20035-bupropion-sustained-release-tablets-smoking-cessation
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/020711s044lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1609/zyban-oral/details
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/020711s034MedGuide.pdf
- https://www.drugs.com/zyban.html
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