Zyban Side Effects

In previous clinical studies, some of the most commonly reported Zyban side effects included insomnia, constipation, dizziness, and a dry mouth. While most people tolerate the drug without problems, there are some potentially serious side effects that can occur. These serious side effects can include seizures, panic attacks, and a rapid heart rate. If you experience any of these side effects of Zyban, contact your healthcare provider.

 

An Introduction to Zyban Side Effects

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Zyban® (bupropion SR). However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate Zyban quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with Zyban. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Zyban side effects with you.)
 

Common Zyban Side Effects

Zyban has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials. In these studies, side effects reported by a group of people taking the drug are documented and are then compared to side effects reported by another group not taking the medicine. This way, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
Based on these studies, the most common side effects of Zyban include:
 
  • Insomnia -- in up to 40 percent of people (see Zyban and Insomnia)
  • An irritated or runny nose -- up to 12 percent
  • Dry mouth -- up to 11 percent (see Zyban and Dry Mouth)
  • Dizziness -- up to 10 percent
  • Nausea -- up to 9 percent
  • Trouble concentrating -- up to 9 percent
  • Constipation -- up to 8 percent
  • Joint pain -- up to 5 percent
  • Unusual dreams -- up to 5 percent
  • Muscle pain -- up to 4 percent
  • Diarrhea -- up to 4 percent
  • Nervousness -- up to 4 percent.
     
Some other common side effects of Zyban (occurring in 1 percent to 3 percent of people) include:
 
  • A loss of appetite
  • Changes in taste
  • Abdominal pain (or stomach pain)
  • Coughing
  • A sore throat
  • Neck pain
  • Increased appetite
  • Shakiness (tremors)
  • Drowsiness
  • Bronchitis
  • Dry skin
  • Canker sores
  • Sinus infections or irritation
  • Bloody nose
  • Hot flashes
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Changes in thought patterns
  • Ringing of the ears (tinnitus).
     
(Zyban Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;