How does Zyban work?
It is not entirely clear how bupropion works. It does not contain nicotine and does not work like nicotine containing products. Zyban is thought to act directly on the chemical processes in the brain responsible for nicotine dependence and withdrawal. These effects may help to reduce to craving or urges to smoke, and the withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping smoking.
Is Zyban right for me?
Zyban is just one of a number of aids to stop smoking. There is no way of knowing which of these aids, if any, will help you. Take time to find out about the different options available and whether they are suitable for you. Information is available from your doctor, your pharmacy and Quitline.
Who should not use Zyban?
Zyban is not recommended for specific groups of people. It should not be taken by anyone under 18 years of age or by woman who are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should also be avoided by anyone who is allergic to the drug or has a history of seizures/epilepsy, bulimia, the elderly and individuals with kidney or liver damage. Your doctor will advice you on your suitability for Zyban.
When should I take Zyban?
Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, you should take ONE Zyban tablet each morning for the first 6 days, then increase to one tablet twice daily from day 7 for the rest of the 2-month long course. The tablets should be taken at least 8 hours apart. As the medicine can interfere with your sleep, it is best to take your last dose of the day as early as possible. So if you take your first dose around 9 am you can take your second dose around 5 pm.
Does Zyban have any side effects?
Zyban, like any medicine can cause side effects. Dry mouth, stomach upset, sleep disturbance, headaches and taste changes are commonly described by people taking Zyban but some of these can also be caused by stopping smoking. Unless your symptoms are severe or are causing concern try to continue taking the medicine as many people find that mild symptoms improve or disappear within a few days. You may find that Zyban causes light-headedness or dizziness. If so, then avoid driving or operating machinery. Uncommon side effects that have been reported with Zyban include chest pains, increased blood pressure, confusion, tinnitus (ringing in the ears) and seizures (fits). A rash is not uncommon when taking Zyban but is usually mild and either disappears spontaneously or responds to treatment with an antihistamine. If your rash is persistent and accompanied by a fever and joint pains stop taking the tablets and consult your doctor. Always speak to your doctor if you are worried about any new symptoms.
Does Zyban interfere with other medicines that I'm taking?
Zyban can interact with a number of medicines including treatments for depression, beta-blockers, theophylline, antimalarials and cimetidine. Make sure that your doctor is aware of ALL the medicines that you take before (s)he prescribes Zyban, including medicines brought from a pharmacy or shop. If you are unsure about taking Zyban with your current medication speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Can I smoke whilst taking Zyban?
Smoking whilst taking Zyban should not cause any particular problems. Indeed, it is recommended that you set your date to suit smoking around 8 days after staring a course of Zyban medicine to allow the drug to get to the required level in your system.
How do I get Zyban?
Zyban is only available on prescription from your doctor. It may be supplied by your pharmacy on a States prescription, subject to the standard prescription charge, providing you attend Quitline support sessions. If you choose not to attend Quitline you will need to pay the full cost of your prescription (around £120 for the 8 week course).
Why do I need to see Quitline for the 2 months that I'm on the medication?
It is a condition for the prescribing of Zyban on a States prescription that you use the support of Quitline to help quit smoking. Research has shown that smokers have the best chance of quitting when they get intensive motivational support along with a medicine. Such support is provided in Guernsey and Alderney by Quitline advisors who can help you during and after your course of Zyban.
What if I forget to take a tablet?
DO NOT DOUBLE UP ON DOSES. If you remember to take your tablet within a few hours of when it was due then take it as normal, remembering to leave at least 8 hours before your next dose. But if you don't remember until the next dose is due then forget the missed dose al together. You should not take more then ONE tablet per dose and no more then a total of TWO tablets per day.
What should I do if I feel unwell whilst taking the drug?
Depending on the severity of your symptoms you may wish to discuss them with your doctor, your pharmacist or a Quitline advisor. Symptoms like dry mouth, sleep problems and stomach upset are expected within the first few days of a Zyban course but often diminish or disappear if you continue to take the medicine. Sleep problems can be reduced by avoiding taking a tablet too close to bedtime. If any symptoms are severe or causing you concern then stop taking the medicine and contact your doctor.
Do I have to take the whole 2 month course?
Zyban is recommended as a 2-month course. Taking it for less than this time could reduce your chances of success.
What happens after 2 months? Is there a 'weaning off' period?
Zyban should not be taken for more than 2-months. It is unlikely that you will experience any problems stopping the tablets when you get to the end of the course, but you may choose to reduce the dose slowly over the last few days of the course to avoid any withdrawal effects. Further courses of Zyban can be used to help with future attempts to quit but you need to think carefully about why you started smoking before you consider trying to quit again.
Can I take Zyban with nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)?
Combining Zyban with NRT is not recommended.
What is Zyban?
Zyban is the brand name of a drug called Bupropion. It is a non-nicotine prescription-only medicine used with motivational support to help people quit smoking.
General FAQ's :- Any questions not covered by the other topics
Quitting FAQ's :- Common Questions and Answers about quitting smoking.
Zyban FAQ's :- Common Questions and Answers about Zyban
NRT FAQ's :- Common Questions and Answers about NRT
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