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How Does Zyban Work?

By Terry Martin, About.com

Updated: June 24, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Question: How Does Zyban Work?
Answer:
Originally, bupropion hydrochloride, also known as Zyban® was created to treat depression. Smokers who used it for this purpose often found themselves quitting smoking without having planned to do so.

While it isn't understood exactly how bupropion works, we do know that this prescription-strength medicine alters the brain's chemistry. The result is a reduced interest in smoking. Nicotine cravings are diminished, and often people find it easy to quit because smoking loses its appeal.

In 1997, the FDA approved the use of bupropion for smoking cessation. Today, bupropion hydrochloride under the brand names of Wellbutrin® SR and Wellbutrin® XL are used to treat depression, while Zyban® is prescribed for smoking cessation. When used in conjunction with a nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), such as the nicotine patch, nicotine gum, nicotine inhaler, or nicotine lozenges, the odds of success increase.

See Also:
Can I Use NRT's with Zyban?
Zyban Patient Information
Zyban as a Quit Smoking Aid
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