New Year’s resolutions are made and broken every January first. Some common New Year’s resolutions are to lose weight, reduce stress and stop smoking. Smoking cessation is difficult to maintain and smokers are in search of the magic stop smoking aid that will work for them.

As many as three quarters of potential reformed smokers attempt to quit cold turkey, half may try nicotine replacement therapies that are available over the counter. Others turn to prescription medications like Wellbutrin to stop smoking.

Wellbutrin is also manufactured under the trade name Zyban and comes in several dosages. Wellbutrin is also used as an antidepressant medication and works to adjust the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. These hormones are not completely understood by the medical community but are believed to be responsible for feelings of happiness and calmness.

In some countries, Wellbutrin is only approved for use as a stop smoking aid and is not used as an antidepressant. In 2006, the FDA also approved Wellbutrin for the treatment of seasonal affective disorder in addition to treating depression and nicotine addiction.

What To Expect

When Wellbutrin is used as a stop smoking aid, the therapy usually lasts seven to twelve weeks with the patient quitting all cigarette smoking after day ten of the therapy. Wellbutrin acts as a nicotine antagonist and patients may experience an adversity to nicotine even in the form of second hand smoke while taking the medication.

When To Avoid Wellbutrin To Stop Smoking

Wellbutrin should not be taken by anyone with a history of seizure disorder as it has been shown to lower the seizure threshold. It should be used cautiously in patients with anorexia, bulimia, and anyone concurrently taking amphetamines or ephedrine. Wellbutrin should also be monitored closely in any patient with known suicidal tendencies or psychoses as it could intensify suicidal thoughts or hallucinations.

The side effects of using Wellbutrin as a stop smoking aid can range from nausea, insomnia, headache, abnormal liver functioning, seizures and weight gain to improved sexual function. The pharmacist should provide a complete least of expected side effects along with any complications that would require medical attention. Reading and understanding this information is necessary before beginning your Wellbutrin therapy.

Using Wellbutrin to stop smoking is a great start to the New Year and can help ensure a smoke free environment for years to come.