Zyban is a prescription medicine used to help adults quit smoking. Its active ingredient, bupropion sustained-release (SR), is a non-nicotine therapy that targets brain chemicals involved in addiction. Unlike nicotine replacement options, Zyban does not supply nicotine; instead, it reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, helping you focus on your quit plan.
Zyban can be used as a standalone smoking cessation aid or combined with structured behavioral support (counseling, quitlines, digital programs). Some clinicians also combine Zyban with nicotine replacement therapy in selected patients to improve success rates, with careful blood pressure monitoring.
Patients often notice reduced urges to smoke and less severe withdrawal after several days on Zyban, which is why clinicians commonly recommend starting it before the quit date. The goal is to give your brain time to reach steady levels of medication before nicotine is stopped completely.
Quitting smoking has far-reaching benefits: reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and many cancers; better lung function; improved circulation; and financial savings. Zyban is one of several evidence-based tools designed to increase the odds of quitting successfully.
Bupropion, the active ingredient in Zyban, primarily affects the neurotransmitters dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemical messengers influence reward, motivation, and mood. By modulating their reuptake, bupropion helps blunt the brain’s conditioned response to nicotine, easing the cycle of craving and withdrawal.
Zyban is also thought to antagonize nicotinic acetylcholine receptors to some extent, which may reduce the reinforcing effects of nicotine. This multimodal action differentiates Zyban from nicotine replacement therapy, which supplies controlled doses of nicotine to mitigate withdrawal.
Clinically, the result is often a noticeable decrease in smoking urges, improved concentration during early abstinence, and better tolerance of irritability and restlessness. Many people find that Zyban helps them resist triggers and break habitual patterns linked to cigarettes.
Because Zyban is a sustained-release formulation, it maintains steadier blood levels over the day. This helps cover the times when cravings typically spike, such as morning routines, after meals, or during stressful periods.
Zyban may be a good option for adults who want a non-nicotine medication to quit smoking or for those who have tried nicotine replacement with limited success. People who prefer a pill over patches, gum, or lozenges may find Zyban more convenient.
It’s often considered when individuals are concerned about weight gain after quitting. While not a weight-loss drug, bupropion has been associated with less post-quit weight gain compared to some alternatives. This effect varies by individual and is not guaranteed.
Zyban can also be a candidate for those who experienced troublesome side effects with other cessation medicines, such as varenicline, or for those who want to combine medication with behavioral support to optimize outcomes. A clinician can help tailor a comprehensive plan to your needs and medical history.
However, Zyban is not appropriate for everyone. People with certain medical conditions or on specific medications may require alternative therapies. A thorough review of your health history and current prescriptions with a clinician is essential before starting.
Typical adult dosing for smoking cessation with Zyban (bupropion SR) begins at 150 mg once daily for the first 3 days. On day 4, the dose is usually increased to 150 mg twice daily, taken at least 8 hours apart. Do not exceed 150 mg per single dose, and do not exceed 300 mg per day when using Zyban for smoking cessation.
Set a target quit date within the first 1 to 2 weeks of treatment. Many people choose a quit date for the end of the first week, allowing the medication to reach effective levels. Continue Zyban for 7 to 12 weeks, and discuss with your clinician whether to extend treatment based on progress and tolerability.
Swallow Zyban tablets whole. Do not crush, split, or chew the sustained-release tablets, as this can increase the risk of side effects, including seizures, by releasing the dose too quickly.
Take doses at the same times each day, spacing them by at least 8 hours. Taking the second dose too close to bedtime may increase the risk of insomnia, so many patients take it in the late afternoon rather than in the evening.
If you are also using nicotine replacement (patch, gum, lozenges), do so only under clinical guidance. Combination therapy can improve quit rates for some individuals but may increase the risk of high blood pressure. Regular monitoring is advised.
Do not drink excessive alcohol while taking Zyban. Abrupt cessation of heavy alcohol or sedative use can increase the risk of seizures. If you consume alcohol regularly, discuss safe use with your clinician before starting Zyban.
Dose adjustments or slower titration may be needed in liver or kidney impairment and in older adults. Follow your clinician’s instructions closely, and do not change your dose without medical advice.
Neuropsychiatric events have been reported with smoking cessation medications, including mood changes, agitation, depression, and, rarely, suicidal thoughts or behavior. These symptoms can also be part of nicotine withdrawal. Monitor for changes in mood or behavior and seek medical help promptly if concerning symptoms appear.
As with many antidepressants, bupropion carries a boxed warning regarding suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Zyban is intended for adults; clinicians weigh risks and benefits in all age groups, especially in those with a history of mood disorders.
Zyban can increase blood pressure. Your clinician may check your blood pressure before starting and periodically during treatment, particularly if you are using nicotine replacement concurrently or have hypertension.
Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold. Risk is dose-related and higher in certain medical situations (e.g., eating disorders, abrupt withdrawal from alcohol or benzodiazepines, head trauma) and with some medications. Never exceed recommended doses, and keep the dosing interval of at least 8 hours.
Insomnia is common, especially when doses are taken late in the day. To reduce sleep problems, take the second dose in the late afternoon if tolerated. Avoid caffeine late in the day and maintain a consistent sleep routine.
Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding requires individualized decision-making. Bupropion crosses the placenta and is present in breast milk. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits with your clinician, including non-pharmacologic cessation support and other medication options.
Angle-closure glaucoma can be precipitated in susceptible individuals. Seek urgent care for eye pain, vision changes, or redness. People with bipolar disorder should use Zyban cautiously, as antidepressant-like effects can sometimes precipitate mania or hypomania.
Alcohol can alter the seizure threshold and may worsen mood symptoms. While some patients can safely consume small amounts, it is prudent to limit or avoid alcohol during treatment and discuss individualized guidance with your clinician.
Do not use Zyban if you have a seizure disorder or a history of seizures. Bupropion lowers the seizure threshold, and pre-existing seizure conditions increase the risk of a serious adverse event.
Zyban is contraindicated in individuals with a current or past diagnosis of bulimia or anorexia nervosa, due to an increased risk of seizures observed in this population.
Do not take Zyban if you are abruptly discontinuing alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or antiepileptic drugs. Sudden withdrawal from these substances raises seizure risk.
Do not use Zyban if you are taking, or have recently taken (within 14 days), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. Combining bupropion with MAOIs can cause dangerous interactions.
Avoid Zyban if you are already taking other medications that contain bupropion (e.g., certain formulations used for depression). Combining bupropion products can lead to excessive dosing and increased side effects, including seizures.
Known hypersensitivity to bupropion or any component of the formulation is a contraindication. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Common side effects of Zyban include dry mouth, insomnia, headache, nausea, constipation, dizziness, and increased sweating. Many of these effects are mild and often lessen as your body adjusts during the first 1–2 weeks of treatment.
Insomnia can be mitigated by taking the second dose in the late afternoon rather than evening and by practicing good sleep hygiene. Dry mouth may improve with frequent sips of water, sugar-free gum, or saliva substitutes.
Some individuals experience anxiety, restlessness, or tremor. While these can be part of nicotine withdrawal, they can also be medication-related. If symptoms are persistent or disruptive, contact your clinician for possible dose timing adjustments or other strategies.
Increases in blood pressure may occur. Your clinician may monitor blood pressure during treatment, especially if combined with nicotine replacement. Report symptoms like severe headache, chest pain, or visual changes promptly.
Serious but uncommon side effects include seizures, severe allergic reactions, severe rash, hallucinations, mood changes, or suicidal thoughts. Seek immediate medical help if any severe symptoms occur.
Sexual side effects are generally less frequent with bupropion than with many other antidepressants, though changes in libido can occur. Weight changes may happen; some people report less weight gain after quitting compared to other methods, but this varies.
Always report new or worsening symptoms to your clinician. Many side effects can be addressed with dose timing, supportive measures, or adjustments to your quit plan.
Zyban can interact with other medications. It inhibits the liver enzyme CYP2D6, potentially increasing levels of drugs metabolized by this pathway. Examples include certain antidepressants (e.g., paroxetine, fluoxetine), antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, haloperidol), beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), and some antiarrhythmics (e.g., propafenone). Dose adjustments or alternative therapies may be necessary.
Bupropion levels can be reduced by enzyme-inducing drugs like carbamazepine, phenytoin, and ritonavir, potentially decreasing effectiveness. Conversely, inhibitors of CYP2B6 (such as ticlopidine or clopidogrel) can raise bupropion levels, increasing side effect risk.
Combining Zyban with other medications that lower the seizure threshold increases seizure risk. Examples include tramadol, certain antipsychotics, theophylline, systemic steroids, and abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines or alcohol. Your clinician may recommend alternatives or enhanced monitoring.
Zyban should not be combined with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI due to the risk of hypertensive crisis and other serious reactions. Avoid concurrent use with other bupropion-containing products to prevent overdosing.
If you use nicotine replacement therapy (especially the patch) with Zyban, blood pressure monitoring is recommended. While combination therapy can be effective, it may increase the risk of hypertension in some patients.
Bupropion can reduce the effectiveness of tamoxifen by inhibiting its activation via CYP2D6. If you take tamoxifen, discuss alternative smoking cessation strategies with your oncology and primary care teams.
Always provide your clinician and pharmacist with a complete list of prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements (including St. John’s wort) to screen for interactions before starting Zyban.
If you miss a dose of Zyban, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is at least 8 hours before your next scheduled dose. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
Do not double up or take extra tablets to make up for a missed dose. Taking doses too close together increases the risk of side effects, including seizures. Setting reminders or using a pill organizer can help maintain consistent dosing.
Signs of bupropion overdose can include seizures, confusion, hallucinations, severe agitation, loss of consciousness, fast or irregular heartbeat, and fainting. If an overdose is suspected, call emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency department. Early medical attention is critical.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by poison control or a healthcare professional. If possible, bring the medication container to the hospital so clinicians can see the exact product and dose.
Store Zyban at room temperature, ideally 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), in a dry place away from moisture and direct heat. Keep tablets in their original container with the lid tightly closed.
Do not store in the bathroom. Keep Zyban out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use the medication past its expiration date, and dispose of unused tablets according to local guidance or pharmacy take-back programs.
Pick a quit date during the first two weeks of starting Zyban, ideally at the end of week one. Use the days leading up to your quit date to practice coping strategies: delaying the urge, deep breathing, short walks, or chewing sugar-free gum can help you push past cravings.
Identify your smoking triggers—morning coffee, commuting, stress, social events—and plan concrete alternatives. For example, switch to a different beverage in the morning, change your commute routine, or have a pre-planned 5-minute break for breathing exercises when stress peaks.
Combine medication with support. Counseling, support groups, quitlines, and digital programs meaningfully increase quit rates. Even brief check-ins with a counselor or clinician can help you troubleshoot challenges and maintain momentum.
Track progress visibly. Keep a calendar of smoke-free days, tally money saved, and note improvements in stamina or taste and smell. These small wins reinforce your motivation.
Prioritize sleep and nutrition. Early quitting can temporarily disrupt sleep and appetite. Regular meals with lean proteins and fiber, hydration, and a consistent bedtime can smooth the transition. Light exercise reduces stress and curbs cravings.
Plan for slips. If you smoke a cigarette, it doesn’t erase your progress. Reassess the trigger, re-commit to your plan, and connect with support. Many long-term ex-smokers required several attempts before success; perseverance matters.
In the United States, Zyban (bupropion SR) is a prescription-only medication. It should be started and monitored by a licensed clinician who can assess your medical history, current medications, and potential risk factors, and who can provide ongoing support throughout your quit journey.
To obtain Zyban legally and safely, schedule an appointment with your primary care clinician or a credentialed telehealth provider. During the evaluation, you’ll discuss your smoking history, prior quit attempts, medical conditions, and medications to ensure Zyban is appropriate and to tailor a plan to your needs.
Some in-home or telehealth medical practices, such as Physician House Calls of Kansas, may offer convenient evaluations and follow-up care. These services can provide legitimate medical assessments and, when clinically appropriate, prescribe and coordinate access to Zyban through licensed pharmacies. You should not attempt to acquire Zyban without a valid prescription.
Using prescription medicines without clinician oversight can be unsafe and, in many cases, unlawful. Choosing a licensed provider ensures you receive the right therapy, screening for interactions, and careful monitoring—key elements that protect your health and improve your chance of quitting for good.
Zyban is a prescription brand of bupropion SR, a non-nicotine medication that reduces nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms to support smoking cessation.
It inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and dopamine and partially blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which blunts the reward of nicotine and eases withdrawal.
Adults who want a non-nicotine option, have struggled with nicotine replacement therapy, worry about post-quit weight gain, or prefer a pill—provided they have no contraindications.
People with a seizure disorder, a history of bulimia or anorexia, those using MAOIs or who used them in the past 14 days, anyone abruptly stopping alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, or antiepileptics, and anyone already taking a bupropion-containing product.
Most adults start with 150 mg once daily for three days, then 150 mg twice daily at least 8 hours apart; swallow tablets whole and do not exceed 300 mg/day unless specifically directed.
Begin 1 week (up to 2 weeks) before your target quit date so the medicine reaches steady effect by the time you stop smoking.
A typical course is 7–12 weeks; some people continue up to 6 months to reduce relapse risk. If there’s no meaningful benefit by week 7, reassess with your clinician.
Insomnia, dry mouth, nausea, headache, dizziness, tremor, sweating, agitation or anxiety, and mild increases in blood pressure are most common.
Seizures (rare at recommended doses), significant hypertension, allergic reactions (rash, swelling), mood or behavior changes, suicidal thoughts, mania, and sudden eye pain from angle-closure glaucoma.
Yes, but the risk is low (about 0.1% at ≤300 mg/day) and increases with higher doses, alcohol misuse, eating disorders, head injury, and drugs that lower seizure threshold.
It can modestly reduce post-cessation weight gain for some people, but it’s not a weight-loss drug and healthy lifestyle habits remain important.
Yes, combining Zyban with a nicotine patch (and sometimes short-acting gum/lozenges) can improve quit rates; your clinician should monitor blood pressure and side effects.
MAOIs, other bupropion products, drugs that lower seizure threshold (tramadol, antipsychotics, TCAs, theophylline, systemic steroids), CYP2B6 modulators (carbamazepine, ritonavir, efavirenz, clopidogrel, ticlopidine), and alcohol. Bupropion inhibits CYP2D6, which can raise levels of some SSRIs, TCAs, antipsychotics, and metoprolol, and may reduce tamoxifen’s effectiveness.
Limit or avoid alcohol; heavy use and abrupt alcohol cessation raise seizure risk and can worsen mood and sleep.
Discuss risks and benefits with your clinician. Nicotine replacement is often preferred in pregnancy; bupropion may be considered if benefits outweigh risks. It passes into breast milk; monitor infants for irritability or poor feeding.
It’s not approved for people under 18 for smoking cessation; evidence is limited. Consult a pediatric specialist.
Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Do not double up, and keep doses at least 8 hours apart.
No. Do not crush, chew, or split sustained-release tablets; altering them can increase side effects, including seizure risk.
Many people feel some relief within 3–7 days, with fuller effect by 1–2 weeks.
Tapering is usually not required, but some clinicians taper over several days to minimize irritability or sleep disruption.
Varenicline generally produces higher quit rates than Zyban in head-to-head data, but individual tolerance, side effects (e.g., nausea with varenicline, insomnia with Zyban), and medical history guide the best choice.
Both improve quit rates over placebo and are roughly comparable; the patch provides steady nicotine and is available OTC, while Zyban is non-nicotine and prescription-only. Choose based on contraindications, preferences, and prior experience.
Gum/lozenges deliver on-demand nicotine for situational cravings; Zyban is systemic and reduces overall withdrawal. Efficacy is similar to single-form NRT for many; some do best combining methods.
Combination NRT often outperforms single agents and can match or exceed Zyban’s effectiveness. If you prefer non-nicotine or had NRT side effects, Zyban is a strong alternative.
Cytisine (a plant-based nicotinic partial agonist) is effective and low-cost where available but not FDA-approved in the U.S. Head-to-head data with bupropion are limited; availability and tolerance often decide.
Both improve quit rates; nortriptyline can cause more anticholinergic effects (dry mouth, constipation), sedation, and cardiac conduction concerns, while Zyban more often causes insomnia and has seizure considerations. Zyban is more commonly used.
Yes, both contain bupropion. Zyban is labeled for smoking cessation (usually SR 150 mg) while Wellbutrin products are labeled for depression. Do not take them together; dosing and goals differ.
Yes. Adding a nicotine patch to Zyban can modestly increase quit rates versus either alone, with careful monitoring for blood pressure and sleep changes.
E-cigarettes can help some smokers quit and may outperform single-form NRT in some studies, but long-term safety is uncertain and products vary widely. Zyban has a well-defined safety and dosing profile; counseling improves outcomes with either.
Yes. Medication roughly doubles the odds of quitting, and adding counseling raises success further. The best results come from combining both.
Clonidine can aid cessation but often causes sedation, dry mouth, and low blood pressure. Zyban is usually preferred unless it’s contraindicated or not tolerated.
Large trials found no significant increase in serious neuropsychiatric events versus placebo or NRT for either drug in stable psychiatric conditions. Varenicline tends to be more effective; choose based on prior response, side effects, and clinician guidance.