Zyban is a nicotine-free medication used to help patients stop smoking. Zyban is a sustained release medication that can effectively help even long term smokers kick the habit for good. It is the first pill released that is nicotine-free and part of a well rounded program that will help all smokers. Zyban is designed for patients ages 18 and older who want to stop smoking.

Zyban Directions

 

Zyban should be swallowed whole. Never crush or chew this medication or it will not work as effectively and the chances of side effects will drastically increase. Always take Zyban as directed by your doctor. Most patients will need to use Zyban twice daily for 7 or more weeks. Do not take more Zyban than your doctor prescribes. This medication is known to cause sleeplessness so do not take it right before you go to bed. It is recommended that patients continue smoking during the first week of using Zyban, so it has time to reach high levels in your blood stream. Never smoke if you are using any nicotine products in combination with Zyban. Too much nicotine can cause serious side effects for all patients.

 

Zyban Side Effects

Zyban has few known side effects. Some patients have experienced mild cases of dry mouth, sweating, constipation, anxiety, fatigue, or headache while using Zyban. Talk to your doctor if side effects are bothersome.

 

Zyban Precautions

 

Before beginning this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history. It is important to tell your doctor about any history of head injury or brain tumors, particularly seizures. Inform your doctor of all heart, liver, and kidney disease. If you have experienced an eating disorder or mental condition, talk with your doctor. Discuss all known allergies before beginning Zyban. People taking Zyban should not consume alcohol as it can increase the risk of seizures in Zyban users. You should not stop taking certain tranquilizers while using Zyban without first consulting your doctor. Elderly patients will be more sensitive to Zyban. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Zyban is excreted through breast milk so nursing mothers should not use Zyban.

 

Drug Interactions with Zyban

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are taking before beginning Zyban. Patients should tell doctors about all MAO inhibitors, such as isocarboxazid, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, pargyline, selegiline, furazolidone), levodopa, theophylline, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), seizure medications, sedatives, ritonavir, tranquilizers/psychiatric drugs (e.g., chlorpromazine), other antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline), salicylates (e.g., aspirin, salsalate), isoniazid, chlolinesterase inhibitors (e.g., tacrine, donepezil), morphine, and adrenaline-like drugs (e.g., pseudoephedrine). Consuming too much caffeine can increase the likelihood of seizures while taking Zyban. Limit caffeine from foods, beverages, and medications. Talk to your doctor about drug interactions before beginning Zyban. Some products used to help people stop smoking contains bupropion. Do not take these products while using Zyban.

 

Missed Dose of Zyban

 

If you miss a dose of Zyban, take it as soon as you remember. If it is within eight hours of the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up on Zyban doses.

 

Zyban Notes

 

Only patients under a doctor's care should use Zyban. Do not share Zyban with others.