Using Bupropion SR (Wellbutrin SR or Zyban SR):

Description:

Bupropion Hydrochloride SR is a quit-smoking medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that doesn’t have any nicotine in it. It is available as Zyban (also called Wellbutrin) and only by prescription. You can use it for up to six months. It can also be used with medications that do contain nicotine, called nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs).

How Do I Take This Medication:

            -Start taking the medication one to two weeks prior to your quit date.

-Begin with a dose of 150 mg every AM for 3 days, then increase to 150 mg two times a day for the duration of treatment (as determined by your doctor).

Precautions/Contraindications:

-You should not take this medicine if you have had a seizure.

            -You should not take this medication if you have had an eating disorder.

-You should not take this medicine if you have used an MAO inhibitor in the past 14 days.

-You should not take this medicine if you are using another form of bupropion.

-You should not take this medication if you have an allergic reaction to bupropion.

-Avoid use with alcohol.

-Pregnancy – not recommended.

            -Nursing Mothers – not recommended.

-Cardiovascular Disease – Generally well tolerated; infrequent reports of hypertension.

Side Effects:

-Insomnia—40%

            -Dry Mouth—10%

Costs:

-Approximately $100 per month