Learn some important insights about Zyban (bupropion)
Dealing with nicotine cravings can be challenging for many. Zyban (bupropion) is a medication indicated for the treatment of tobacco withdrawal symptoms and nicotine dependence. Only a qualified doctor can determine whether this medication is right for you. In the meantime, you can learn more about this medication today with this article by the medical review team at Chemist2U.
In this article
How does Zyban (bupropion) work?
Zyban (bupropion) is prescribed by a doctor and designed for short-term use, complemented by supportive counselling, to effectively reduce withdrawal symptoms and the impulse to consume nicotine.[1]
With a half-life of 21 hours, this medication is absorbed by the gut and metabolised thoroughly in the liver before being metabolised further and excreted by the kidneys. Its unique interaction with brain chemistry lessens cravings by modulating the release of dopamine and noradrenaline without significantly affecting serotonin levels. It also reduces the stimulant effects of nicotine on the nicotinic acetylcholine receptors to decrease cravings.[2]
Several clinical trials have proven the efficacy of Zyban medication, showing it helps about one in five smokers break free from the habit.[3]
Apart from supporting smoking cessation, Zyban (bupropion) is also primarily designed as an anti-depressant like Zactin (fluoxetine) or Cipramil (citalopram).
How do you take Zyban (bupropion)?
The effects of Zyban tablets are not immediate. A doctor might ask that a patient begin intake one to two weeks before a patient plans to stop smoking; this gives time for the medication to build up in the body. Typically, this medication is available in 150 mg tablets, but the frequency of dosage per day can vary. If you are older or have kidney or liver diseases, your dosage may be different.[4]
It’s important to note that only your doctor can determine the correct dosage and frequency of Zyban (bupropion) if it’s the right mental health medication for you.
Who can take Zyban (bupropion)?
Zyban (bupropion) is a short-term adjunctive therapy for individuals determined to get nicotine addiction help. This medication is specifically designed for those ready to quit smoking and is most effective when used alongside professional counselling aimed at smoking cessation or abstinence.[5] It is a supplement to the emotional and psychological support needed during a potentially challenging time.
Side effects of Zyban (bupropion)
Setting your expectations regarding the side effects of bupropion is important to help you with smoking cessation. In clinical trials, up to 50% of patients who take bupropion report side effects such as dry mouth and insomnia, which are closely associated with nicotine withdrawal.[6]
Other common side effects, like headaches, difficulty sleeping, and vomiting, are typically mild and manageable. However, patients are advised to contact their doctor if they experience more concerning symptoms such as fever, dizziness, tremors, loss of appetite, or impaired vision.[7]
Research highlights bupropion’s lower likelihood of causing sexual dysfunction compared to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)[8] and its reduced risk of triggering mania in patients with bipolar disorder during depressive episodes.[9] These attributes underscore its value in treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
Clinical trials funded by the manufacturer of Zyban (bupropion) have shown that the medication has a relatively low rate of adverse reactions, with a small percentage of patients discontinuing use due to side effects.[10]
Zyban (bupropion) and other medications
When bupropion is incorporated into a smoking cessation plan, it is helpful to know its interactions with alcohol and other medications.
This medication is contraindicated for individuals with a history of seizures, eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia nervosa, severe hepatic cirrhosis, bipolar disorder, or those currently on monoamine oxidase inhibitors.[11] There may be other contraindications not listed here.
Its safety during pregnancy remains undetermined, and drug-free quitting methods may be advised for pregnant women.
Drinking alcohol or abruptly stopping can increase a patient’s risk of seizures. The same is true for those taking sedatives like benzodiazepines and suddenly discontinuing them.[12] Before starting any kind of medication or nicotine replacement therapy, a thorough conversation with your doctor about your alcohol intake and medication use is essential to ensuring your safety.
Medicines you should not use with Zyban (bupropion)
In terms of using bupropion for quitting smoking, it’s important to be aware of its interactions with certain medications.
Bupropion can increase plasma levels of various drugs, including some antidepressants, antiarrhythmics, and antipsychotics, due to its potent enzyme inhibition properties.[13] It is also contraindicated for individuals who are currently on monoamine oxidase inhibitors or taking linezolid or methylene blue.[14] Your doctor may advise you to avoid combining bupropion with these medications to prevent potential adverse effects.[15]
How to order Zyban (bupropion) through Chemist2U
Chronic pain or chronic conditions can make purchasing and accessing needed medications a challenge. At Chemist2U, we make it easy for people to have the medications they need when they need them.
Begin by downloading our app or using this website to upload your eScript. You can also add any over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products you need, just like you would in a physical pharmacy. Rest assured that a qualified partner pharmacist in your local area will carefully prepare your medications and goods.
If you live in a metro or major regional area of Australia and want to avail yourself of same-day delivery, just place your order before the cutoff time. Typically, this is at 2:00 p.m., but this may vary in some locations. Note that a minority of products (inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via AusPost. Allow five to seven business days for these medications.
Home delivery of prescription and over-the-counter medicines is just the beginning of how Chemist2U makes medication easy. We also send reminders when it’s time to reorder and seek a new script.
Chemist2U is here to support your wellness, offering convenience and compassionate care every step of the way.
Have your medication home-delivered by Chemist2U today.
References
[1] https://www.nps.org.au/medicine-finder/zyban-sr-sustained-release-tablets
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2528204/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18488428
[4] https://healthify.nz/medicines-a-z/b/bupropion/
[5] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,58481000168104/zyban-sr
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18488428
[7] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/9560bdb1-b75f-4001-a0d4-a53300ffa5ba-reduced.pdf
[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1163271/
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1163271/
[10] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC164969/
[11] https://www.nature.com/articles/4800786
[12] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/9560bdb1-b75f-4001-a0d4-a53300ffa5ba-reduced.pdf
[13] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2528204/
