Zyban

Description

Zyban, commonly known as bupropion, is an antidepressant that is used to treat a number of physical and psychological conditions. The medication is mainly used to treat addictions to smoking. The drug is useful in treating depression too.

 

 

 

How it works

 

It helps smokers to quit the habit by reducing their cravings and withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety and irritability to a significant extent. The medication must be used with a combination of other drugs in order to experience the full benefit of the drug. Although it is not known how exactly the medication works, it is predicted that it is done by affecting the chemicals in the brain.

 

Its uses

 

The main use of this medication is to reduce withdrawal symptoms amongst smokers to encourage them to quit smoking. It can also reduce the urge to smoke in general too. Since the medication has the ability to control the neurotransmitter levels in the brain, it can treat depression as well.

 

Dosage

 

This medication is usually taken twice on a daily basis. However, your dosage can differ according to your personal health state and response to the treatment. It is best to take it with food since consuming it without food can result in an upset stomach. It is highly important to ensure that both doses are at least 8 hours apart to reduce the risk of seizures. You must not chew or crush the medication since it can expose the entire drug to your mouth. A single dose must not exceed 150mgs – unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

 

Side effects

 

The following are some of the side effects that you may/may not experience during this treatment period.

 

 Blurred vision
 Confusion
 Headache
 Dizziness
 Hallucinations
 Problems in concentrating
 Seizure
 Unusual thoughts and behavior

 

Although you might not experience all of the above symptoms, it is best to keep an eye out for all of them. If you do experience any of the above, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

 

Precautions

 

You can reduce the risk of experiencing the side effects of this medication by following the guidelines mentioned below:

 

 Since the medication can increase the risk of seizures, it is best to avoid alcohol consumption.

 

 Do not change your dose without consulting your physician.

 

 You must consume it regularly without skipping the doses in order to increase the effectiveness of the drug.

 

 You must not stop the treatment abruptly since you might experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.

 

 The medication can harm your baby if you use it during periods of pregnancy or breastfeeding.

 

 Check the ingredients used to create the drug and see whether you are allergic to any of them.

 

Self-care

 

Do not quit smoking as soon as you start taking the medication. Continue smoking during the first week of your treatment since it will enable the drug to adequately interact with the body. Once it does, you can quit smoking. This can be done during the second week of the treatment.

 

It is also possible for you to consume this drug while using nicotine patches or gum. However, this combination can increase your blood pressure. Therefore, speak to your healthcare provider and follow a method that will not affect your body negatively.