Zyban
(Bupropion)
Reduces nicotine cravings.
Our bottom line
Good for blocking the withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking. But you need to be okay with avoiding alcohol use and possibly using nicotine replacement.
- Drug class: Neurology
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (bupropion)
Upsides
- Can help relieve the withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking.
- Fewer sexual side effects compared to other antidepressants. Can actually boost sex drive for some people.
- Zyban (Bupropion) does not contain nicotine, so it is not dangerous if you continue to smoke. You can even use nicotine replacement like the patch while you are taking Zyban (Bupropion)
- Has some stimulant effects, so it can be energizing.
- Six out of every 10 people who use an antidepressant for the first time find that it works for them.
Downsides
- Can be stimulating, so it can cause some anxiety or insomnia in the first few days.
- Higher risk of seizures, especially if you have a seizure disorder or eating disorder, or if you drink alcohol.
- Not a good medication for you if you drink a lot.
- Like most antidepressants, can cause higher risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior for people age 24 and younger.
- If you are a heavy smoker you may also need to use nicotine replacement like the patch.
Zyban (Bupropion) is an atypical antidepressant. Researchers don't know exactly how it works, but it seems to change dopamine and norepinephrine activity in the brain, which regulates mood.
- Drug class: Neurology
- Rx status: Prescription only
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (bupropion)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Pill
- Extended release
Prices and coupons
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Side effect rates for Zyban (Bupropion)
- Insomnia31%31%21%21%
- Dry mouth11%11%5%5%
- Dizziness8%8%7%7%
- Arthralgia4%4%3%3%
- Pruritus3%3%
- Rash3%3%
- Neck pain2%2%
- Increased appetite2%2%
- Myalgia2%2%1%1%
- Tremor2%2%1%1%
- Somnolence2%2%1%1%
- Bronchitis2%2%
- Dry skin2%2%
- Taste perversion2%2%
The placebo bar shows how common a side effect was for people taking a sugar pill instead of Zyban.
People taking Zyban felt side effect more
People taking Zyban felt side effect less
Risks and Warnings for Zyban (Bupropion)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.- Higher risk if:
- › History of depression
- › History of bipolar disorder
- › At risk for bipolar disorder
- › Withdrawing from nicotine
Some people taking Zyban (Bupropion) for smoking cessation have reported serious psychiatric effects, such as depression and, rarely, suicidal thoughts or behavior. These effects may be worse if you're withdrawing from nicotine because depression can be symptom of nicotine withdrawal. Watch for any sudden changes in mood, thinking, or behavior, and report anything concerning to a doctor immediately.
Common concerns from people taking Zyban (Bupropion)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?Research studies with animals found harmful effects on unborn babies. It hasn’t been properly studied in humans. The benefits might outweigh the risks even if you’re pregnant. Talk with your doctor.
Tip: Always talk with your doctor before you take any medication while pregnant.- Higher risk of seizures, especially if you have a seizure disorder or eating disorder, or if you drink alcohol.