Zyban (Bupropion) Review
An FDA-approved prescription medication for smoking cessation that works by affecting brain chemicals related to nicotine addiction.
Manufacturer
GlaxoSmithKline
FDA Approved
1997
Prescription Required
Yes
Generic Available
Yes
Typical Cost
$100-300 per month (brand name), $40-150 per month (generic)
Treatment Duration
7-12 weeks standard treatment
Table of Contents
Overview of Zyban (Bupropion)
Zyban (bupropion hydrochloride) is an FDA-approved prescription medication used to help people quit smoking. Originally developed and marketed as the antidepressant Wellbutrin, researchers discovered its effectiveness for smoking cessation, leading to its approval as Zyban in 1997.
Unlike nicotine replacement therapies, Zyban doesn't contain nicotine. Instead, it works by altering brain chemistry to reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This non-nicotine approach makes it a valuable option for those who prefer to avoid nicotine-based treatments or have not succeeded with them.
Key Facts About Zyban
- Active ingredient: Bupropion hydrochloride (sustained-release)
- Drug class: Atypical antidepressant (aminoketone)
- FDA approval: 1997 for smoking cessation
- Standard dosage: 150 mg once daily for 3 days, then 150 mg twice daily
- Treatment duration: 7-12 weeks is standard
- Prescription status: Requires a doctor's prescription
- Available as generic: Yes (bupropion SR)
- Success rate: Approximately doubles the chances of quitting compared to placebo
Zyban is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program that includes behavioral support and counseling. The medication is started 1-2 weeks before your target quit date, allowing it to build up in your system and begin working by the time you stop smoking.
While effective for many smokers, Zyban isn't suitable for everyone. It carries an FDA black box warning regarding the risk of psychiatric side effects, including suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in young adults. It's also contraindicated for people with certain medical conditions, such as seizure disorders, eating disorders, or those undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol or sedatives.
This review provides a comprehensive look at Zyban's effectiveness, how it works, potential side effects, and how it compares to other smoking cessation methods to help you determine if it might be right for your quit journey.
How Zyban (Bupropion) Works
Zyban works differently from other smoking cessation aids. Unlike nicotine replacement therapies that provide nicotine in controlled amounts, Zyban is a non-nicotine medication that affects brain chemistry to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Mechanism of Action
Bupropion, the active ingredient in Zyban, works in the brain by:
- Inhibiting the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine: By blocking the reabsorption of these neurotransmitters, Zyban increases their levels in the brain
- Affecting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors: Bupropion acts as an antagonist at nicotinic receptors, potentially reducing the rewarding effects of nicotine
- Modulating the brain's reward system: By affecting dopamine, which plays a key role in pleasure and reward, Zyban helps reduce the pleasurable effects of smoking
These actions help address both the physical and psychological aspects of nicotine addiction, making it easier to quit smoking and stay quit.
Effects on Nicotine Withdrawal
Zyban helps manage several common nicotine withdrawal symptoms:
- Reduced cravings: By affecting dopamine levels, Zyban can decrease the intensity and frequency of nicotine cravings
- Improved mood: Its antidepressant properties can help counter the irritability, anxiety, and depression that often accompany nicotine withdrawal
- Decreased reward from smoking: Zyban may reduce the pleasure derived from cigarettes, making it easier to resist the urge to smoke
- Weight management: Unlike some quit methods, Zyban may help limit the weight gain that often occurs when quitting smoking
Timeline of Effects
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Days 1-3 | Begin taking 150 mg once daily; minimal effects as medication builds up in system |
| Days 4-7 | Increase to 150 mg twice daily; may begin to notice subtle changes in mood or energy |
| Week 2 | Recommended quit date; medication reaches effective levels; reduced cravings and withdrawal symptoms begin |
| Weeks 2-4 | Full therapeutic effect achieved; maximum benefit for managing cravings and withdrawal |
| Weeks 7-12 | Continued treatment helps maintain abstinence and prevent relapse |
Unlike nicotine replacement therapies that provide immediate relief from withdrawal symptoms, Zyban requires time to build up in your system. This is why it's typically started 1-2 weeks before your quit date. This gradual onset helps your brain adjust to the medication and prepares you for your quit attempt.