Posted by dandelion on November 14, 2003, at 16:27:02
In reply to wellbutrin to quit smoking, posted by vanessa33 on November 14, 2003, at 15:06:05
> A medical doctor recently prescribed me wellbutrin to quit smoking. (This is a well-known side effect of wellbutrin. It's been shown to stop cigarette cravings, he says). It's sitting on my shelf, and I'm feeling uncertain.
Hi....My psy. MD prescribed Wellbutrin XR (recently changed to XL) about 2 months ago, in hopes of decreasing these fits of rage I'd been experiencing. Currently, i'm taking 300 mg. I must say that I have not noticed that much of a change in regards to my mood (perhaps less apt to anger so easily), but I can sincerely say, that this is the first time EVER, I have had virtually no cravings/temptations to smoke. About a month ago, I suddenly realized that I hadn't smoked - and I didn't want to! I have smoked for 7 years, so I'm not just the casual smoker. Did your MD also tell you that Wellbutrin is exactly the same medication as Zyban, a drug that is prescribed for smoking cessation? The FDA marketed the two with different names, though they share the same active ingredient (Bupropion), because they are indicated for different purposes. Also, some insurance companies will cover for Wellbutrin prescribed for depression (or so they think), but not Zyban. I would definitely talk about this with your psy MD however. All of your MDs should always be aware of any medication changes, or additions. hope this helped a bit!
p.s. never take Wellbutrin and Zyban together. This will lead to an increased dose of Bupropion, which can be very dangerous.
poster:dandelion
thread:279783
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031111/msgs/279801.html