Zyban (PDF)

Zyban

WARNING: There is a chance that 1 out of every 1000 people taking Zyban will have a seizure. The chance of this happening increases if you:
* Have a seizure disorder (such as epilepsy)
* Have or have had an eating disorder (such as bulimia or anorexia)
* Take more Zyban than prescribed by your provider
* Take other medications with the same active ingredient tat is in Zyban such as Wellbutrin (buproprion hydrochloride) and Wellbutrin SR

What is it?

Zyban is a medication that can help people quit smoking. Studies have shown that more than one-third of people quit smoking for at least 1 month while taking Zyban and taking part in a patient support program. For many people, Zyban can reduce withdrawal symptoms and the urge to smoke.

Inform your provider if:

* You have a seizure disorder (such as epilepsy)
* You have or have had an eating disorder (such as bulimia or anorexia)
* You are taking Wellbutrin or Wellbutrin SR (buproprion hydrochloride)
* Are allergic to buproprion hydrochloride, Wellbutrin, or Zyban
* Are taking or recently took a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
* Are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

Use:

* Take one 150mg pill in the morning for the first three days
* On the fourth day, take one 150mg pill in the morning and one 150mg pill in the early evening. Make sure the doses are at least 8 hours apart.
* Pills must be swallowed whole. Do not chew, crush, or cut pills.
* Never take an “extra” dose of Zyban. If you miss a dose, wait and take your next dose at the scheduled time.
* Most people take Zyban for 7-12 weeks.
* It takes about 1 week for Zyban to reach the right level in your body to aid in quitting smoking. Set a quit date sometime in the second week of use.
* It will not hurt you to take Zyban and smoke at the same time.
* It is best not to drink alcohol while taking Zyban.

Side effects:

* Dry mouth
* Trouble sleeping
* Shakiness
* Skin rash

Things to remember with any medication:

* Keep medications away from children.
* Store medications in a cool, dark, dry environment.
* Throw away medicine that is outdated.
* Take medicine as prescribed.

Written by the Women’s Group Practitioners Last Reviewed in November 2009
© Copyright 2009 The Women’s Group PC 1