Zyban (bupropion)

Recent research found that Zyban is pretty effective at helping people quit smoking. Originally developed as an antidepressant, Zyban is the brand name for the drug bupropion. 

It works by stopping certain neurotransmitters, like dopamine and norepinephrine, from being reabsorbed in the brain. This helps to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms that come with nicotine addiction.

If you’re planning to use Zyban to quit smoking, it’s best to start taking it a bit before your planned quit date. 

Usually, it’s taken for about seven to twelve weeks. You’ll need to take it twice a day, and it’s a good idea to take it with food to help avoid any stomach upset.

Zyban has been found effective not only for treating depression but also for helping people quit smoking, making it particularly handy for those struggling with both issues at the same time.

That said, it’s worth keeping an eye on the potential side effects. You might experience insomnia, dry mouth, nausea, or headaches. Although rare, there’s also a risk of seizures, particularly if you have a history of seizure disorders or are taking certain other medications.

Champix (varenicline)

Champix is the brand name for the drug varenicline. Like Zyban, it is a prescription medication that is used to help people quit smoking. However, it works in a different way.

Champix acts on the same receptors in the brain that nicotine does, blocking their activation. This can help reduce the pleasure associated with smoking, as well as the cravings and withdrawal symptoms that can occur when trying to quit.

Champix is taken orally, usually twice a day, for a period of twelve weeks. It is important to start taking the medication at least one week before your planned quit date to allow it to build up in your body.

Like Zyban, Champix can cause side effects, including nausea, headache, and sleep disturbances. In some cases, it can also cause more serious side effects, such as depression or suicidal thoughts. However, these are relatively rare and usually occur in individuals with a history of mental health conditions.

Champix does have a higher risk of side effects than Zyban, particularly in terms of mental health. While the risk of serious side effects is relatively low, it is important to be aware of these risks and to talk to a doctor if any concerning symptoms develop.

Additionally, Champix is not recommended for individuals with a history of seizures or other neurological conditions.

Which one is right for me?

Both Zyban and Champix are effective prescription medications that can help you quit smoking.

While they work in different ways and have distinct pros and cons, the choice of medication will ultimately depend on your medical history and the treating doctor’s clinical guidance.

It’s important to talk to a doctor before starting any smoking cessation medication, and to carefully monitor any side effects that may occur.

Book a telehealth consultation today to discuss your options – no payment or purchase required.

Link Reference

  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3030120/
  • https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695033.html
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534846/
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8897753/