An Overview of Zyban Alternatives
Zyban® (
bupropion SR) is a prescription medicine used for smoking cessation (or to help people quit smoking). For many people, Zyban is effective at helping with smoking cessation. Also, most people tolerate the medicine quite well. However, as with all medicines, it is possible that side effects of Zyban will occur or that the medicine may not adequately help people to stop smoking. Fortunately, several alternatives to Zyban are available, including:
- Counseling
- Nicotine replacement medications
- Other medications.
Counseling
Many forms of counseling, including group therapy, can help people to stop smoking. In fact, in previous studies, Zyban was always used in combination with counseling. Ask your healthcare provider about counseling or support programs for people trying to quit smoking. Various Web sites and hotlines are also available to offer advice and support.
Nicotine Replacement Medications
Numerous forms of nicotine replacement medications are available -- both over the counter and with a prescription. Some of these medicines include:
- Nicotine patches, such as NicoDerm CQ® or Nicotrol®
- Nicotine gum, including Nicorelief® or Nicorette®
- Nicotine lozenges (Commit®)
- Nicotine inhaler (Nicotrol Inhaler®), available with a prescription only
- Nicotine nasal spray (Nicotrol NS®), available with a prescription only.
Nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges are available over the counter (without a prescription) to people over the age of 18. Although nicotine replacement medication can be effective, it can be dangerous for people with heart problems. Talk with your healthcare provider before using a nicotine replacement product. You should not use these products while you are still smoking.
