Tobacco Use Prevention & Cessation Program

Instructions For Using Zyban®

What is ZYBAN?

Zyban (bupropion hydrochloride) is a prescription medication to help people quit smoking. It does not contain nicotine. It reduces withdrawal symptoms and the urge to smoke. It is most effective with a patient support program. ZYBAN is not recommended if you have a seizure disorder (i.e. epilepsy), an eating disorder (i.e. anorexia nervosa or bulimia), pregnant, or taking other medicines with the same active ingredient (bupropion) such as WELLBUTRIN®.

How to use ZYBAN

• Take as directed by your doctor. The recommended dosage is one 150-mg tablet in the morning for the first 3 days. On the fourth day, begin taking one 150-mg tablet in the morning and one 150-mg tablet in the early evening. Take doses at least 8 hours apart.
• Swallow the tablet whole. Do not chew, divide, or crush tablets.
• Do not use nicotine patches and ZYBAN together unless directed by your doctor. Together they can lead to an increase in blood pressure.

When to quit smoking?

It takes about one week for ZYBAN to reach the right levels in your body to be effective. So, continue smoking as usual the first week you take ZYBAN. Set a quit date for the second week you take ZYBAN. Otherwise you will reduce your chance of quitting smoking.

Missed a dose?

Do not take an extra tablet to “catch up” for the forgotten dose. Wait and take the tablet at the next regularly scheduled time. This is important to lessen your risk of a seizure.

How long should you take ZYBAN?

Most people take it for 7 to 12 weeks. Follow your doctor’s instructions.

Storage of ZYBAN

Store at room temperature out of direct sunlight. Keep ZYBAN in its original bottle. Store it up and away from children and pets.

Possible Side Effects

• Most common ones are dry mouth and difficulty sleeping. They are usually mild and disappear after a few weeks. If you have difficulty sleeping, avoid taking ZYBAN too close to bedtime.
• Shakiness and skin rash may occur. Call your doctor.
• Use care when driving a car or operating complex machinery until you know if ZYBAN affects your ability to perform these tasks.

Other Medications

ZYBAN may affect other medicines you are taking. It is important not to take medicines that may increase your chance of having a seizure. You must share with your doctor any prescription and over-the-counter medicines you are taking.

Adverse Reactions

• Tremors
• Convulsions
• Seizures
• Skin rashes
• Dizziness

Important Phone Numbers

Your Doctor:

Wicomico County Health Department: 410-546-5311

Community Pharmacy: 410-749-1899

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