Zyban is an antidepressant that works by reducing nicotine withdrawal symptoms when you’re trying to quit smoking, though the exact way it helps to stop smoking is unknown. Most smokers struggle with withdrawal symptoms when they stop smoking, such as anxiety, irritability headaches, and nicotine cravings.

Start taking Zyban one to two weeks before your set date for stopping smoking. During the first week of taking Zyban, you need to take one tablet containing a dose of 150mg bupropion. On your 7th day of treatment, increase your dosage to two 150mg tablets per day, taken at least 8 hours apart (but not before going to sleep in the evening). Continue this dose for a maximum period of 9 weeks.

If you have not successfully stopped smoking by week 7, speak to your doctor. You may need to stop taking Zyban. If you have stopped smoking, you can gradually stop taking Zyban during week 7 - 9. Speak to your doctor to discuss the duration of your treatment.

Do not take Zyban if:

• you are allergic to bupropion or any other ingredient in Zyban
• you are taking any other medication which contains bupropion
• you suffer from seizures (for example epilepsy)
• you have a brain tumour
• you have severe liver problems
• you are a heavy drinker who has recently stopped or is planning to stop drinking
• you have recently stopped taking sedatives or medication used to treat anxiety
• you are taking sedatives or medication used to treat anxiety and are planning to stop taking it
• you suffer from bipolar disorder
• you are taking medication for Parkinson’s disease (or have recently taken any)

Discuss your medical history with a doctor before taking Zyban or any other bupropion medication. It is particularly important that you mention any mental health issues you suffer from or have suffered from in the past. For a full list of warnings and risks, please read the Zyban patient leaflet that comes with your medication.

Zyban interacts with a range of medicines. Tell your doctor about all prescription and non-prescription medications you are currently taking or have recently taken before beginning your treatment.