Smoking is an addiction that doesn’t just make you feel like a bad person. It also puts you at risk for lung cancer and other diseases.
That’s why it’s so important to quit and not just for your health. If you don’t, your body will start to rely on nicotine to function.
Quitting smoking can also reduce the risk of other illnesses, such as heart disease and stroke.
There are many different ways to quit. But nicotine replacement therapies, such as nicotine patches and gums, are often the first choice.
However, researchers are always looking to find better ways to help you quit smoking.
One of the newest approaches is nicotine replacement therapy with bupropion (generic Zyban).
Research shows that Zyban, a medication, is just as effective as nicotine replacement therapies.
Does Bupropion Have Side Effects?
As with all medications, Zyban comes with some potential side effects. But they’re relatively minor.
Some people may experience:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Changes in appetite
These side effects usually go away after a few weeks.
If you notice any of these side effects, talk to your doctor right away. They can help you find a different medication or adjust the dosage.
What Are the Benefits of Bupropion?
While Zyban is a safe and effective way to quit smoking, it’s not without some drawbacks.
For one, it can take up to 8 weeks to kick smoking.
Plus, the cost of Zyban can be a heavy burden. Many people don’t have insurance coverage for it.
That said, you may be able to find a low-cost bupropion alternative.
Bupropion also comes with a relatively mild side effect profile.
Because of that, it’s a good choice for people who are interested in nicotine but not the side effects of nicotine replacement therapy.
What Are the Drawbacks of Bupropion?
According to the American Lung Association, bupropion may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in young adults.
If you take any other drugs or have a history of suicidal thoughts or behavior, talk to your doctor before you begin using bupropion.
Talk to your doctor before you start using Zyban. If you have a history of depression or mental illness, you should be especially careful to check in with your doctor before trying this medication.
Because it can cause dizziness and other physical side effects, you may want to take this medication only under the supervision of a medical professional.
How Do I Use It?
To use bupropion, you’ll need to take a prescription from your doctor.
Many doctors give you a prescription for bupropion through your doctor’s office.
You’ll also need to get a bupropion prescription from your pharmacy, though.
You’ll also need to check to see if it’s available at your local pharmacy.
You’ll use the bupropion prescription as follows:
- Talk to your doctor about the best dosage for you.
- When you’re ready to take the medication, you’ll need to apply a thin layer of the medication to your tongue.
- You’ll need to place the medication on your tongue for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Keep your tongue covered for the entire time.
- After the application, wash your tongue with warm water.
To avoid side effects, avoid eating or drinking anything for 30 minutes before and after you apply the medication.
Talk to your doctor about any questions you have about the best dosage of bupropion for you.
Take Care of Yourself
It’s important that you take care of yourself when using bupropion.
Don’t smoke or drink while taking this medication. Smoking can make it less effective.
Stick to a schedule of taking the medication according to your doctor’s instructions.
If you feel dizzy or nauseous, apply a small amount of a cold, wet washcloth to the back of your throat to help relieve the symptoms.
When to See a Doctor?
- You have a history of depression or bipolar disorder.
- You have or have had suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
If you take any other medications, such as antidepressants, antianxiety drugs, or pain medications, you should check to see if you’re allergic to bupropion.
If you’re not sure if you’re allergic, talk to your doctor.
They can help you find a different medication that doesn’t have side effects.
If your doctor prescribes bupropion for you, they’ll likely tell you to take your medication every day.
They’ll likely also ask that you keep a log of your medication and how you feel about taking it.
How Can You Quit Smoking?
If you’re ready to quit smoking, there are many options available.
There are many ways to try to quit smoking, from nicotine replacement therapies to other medications.
If you decide to try to quit smoking, make sure you’re doing it right.
If you’re interested in quitting, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help you find a plan that works for you.
You can also try to quit on your own by making a few simple changes.
If you’re interested in stopping smoking, try to cut back on your cigarette and tobacco use.
One study found that people who cut back on their cigarette and tobacco use were able to avoid relapse.
If you smoke and want to stop, you can also try nicotine replacement therapies.
These include nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges.
You can also talk to your doc about smoking cessation medications.
These include prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications, such as varenicline (Chantix), bupropion, and nortriptyline (Pamelor).
How Can I Relieve Symptoms of Bupropion Side Effects?
If you have bupropion side effects, you can try to ease them.
Here are some tips for how to ease bupropion side effects:
- Apply ice to the back of your neck.
- Try some over-the-counter pain medications.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin).
- Try distraction.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Get plenty of sleep.
If your side effects are severe, talk to your doc. They can help you find a treatment plan that can help you reduce your side effects.
If you don’t experience any side effects, you can try to quit smoking.
The bottom line
Nicotine replacement therapies, including bupropion, can help you quit smoking.
While bupropion is a safe and effective treatment, you may want to consider other options if the health benefits of bupropion outweigh the risks.
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