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MEDICATION guide
Bupropion (Wellbutrin SR®/Zyban)
Specifics on Bupropion/Zyban
Dosing:
- Treatment with bupropion should be initiated while the person is still smoking. Approximately one week of treatment is required to achieve steady blood levels.
- Dosing should begin at 150 mg/day given every day for the first 3 days, followed by a dose increase for most people to the recommended dose of 300 mg/day.
- The maximum recommended dose is 300 mg/day, given as 150 mg twice daily.
- An interval of at least 8 hours between successive doses is advised.
- The quit attempt should occur during second week of treatment.
Product Strengths:
One dose of Zyban is 150 mg.
Manufacturer's Recommended Treatment Duration:
The manufacturer of Zyban recommends a treatment duration of 7 - 12 weeks.
Adverse Reactions:
The most common side effects from taking bupropion are dry mouth and insomnia. Also, shakiness and skin rash has been reported. Sleep disturbances can be minimized by avoiding bedtime doses.
Unique Product Contraindications:
There are specific conditions that would prohibit the use of bupropion. It is advisable that the user discuss his/her medical history with a physician prior to using this drug. The following conditions of concern are as follows:
- seizure disorder
- current use of Wellbutrin, Wellbutrin SR or other medications containing bupropion
- current or prior diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa
- concurrent administration of bupropion and MAO inhibitors (a drug taken by people who suffer from mood disorders)
- allergic response to bupropion
- heavy alcohol use
Cost:
The average wholesale price for bupropion is approximately $2.50 per day.
Adapted with permission from materials from the Center for Tobacco Prevention
& Control, Massachusetts Tobacco Control Program, Department of Public
Health.
Content author:
Alan S. Peters, CTTS-M
Reviewed by:
Andy Perez, MD, MBA, FACEP, February 2009
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