How does Zyban work?

The exact way in which Zyban works is presently unknown, but it operates on the brain in an effort of treating depression. It is also used to help people who are trying to stop smoking, through the reduction of the cravings and the other withdrawal effects usually associated with the habit.

How to take Zyban?

Zyban is a medication which must be taken while carefully following a physician's directions. It is taken orally, with or without previous intake of food. If it is taken as an aid in quitting smoking, the user can continue with the habit for at least one week after the first intake of the drug. A set date on when the habit must be broken should be made within the second week of drug treatment. During this time, the blood stream has absorbed enough amounts of the medication to help the user in quitting the smoking habit. If the user finds that quitting the habit is still difficult after the seventh week of treatment, seek medical advice from a physician.

Side Effects.

If the following common adverse effects are experienced, seek medical advice:

• Agitation.
• constipation.
• drowsiness.
• headache.
• increased sweating.
• nausea.
• dry mouth.
• nervousness.
• restlessness.
• loss of appetite.
• taste changes.
• anxiety.
• insomnia.
• vomiting.
• dizziness.
• and weight changes.

Seek medical help immediately in the presence of the following serious side effects:

• chest pain.
• delusions.
• problems with hearing.
• changes in the menstrual cycle.
• panic attacks.
• impulsiveness.
• hostility.
• persistent insomnia.
• and suicidal thoughts and behavior.

Precautions and Interactions.

The potency of Zyban may be enhanced by alcohol intake or other medicines which interact with it, particularly those which have a side effect of drowsiness. If the user is currently taking alcohol or other types of sedative, these must not be abruptly stopped without an initial consultation with a doctor. Taking decongestants, diet pills, and other stimulants while under treatment with Zyban may increase an individual's chances of incurring a seizure. The risks are even greater if the individual takes the medication in large doses, and for prolonged periods. Children and adolescents, as well as adults who are under treatment for Zyban are also at risk of developing suicidal thoughts and behavior. If such symptoms manifest, temporarily discontinue intake and seek medical help.

Missed Dose.

Take a missed intake as soon as necessary, as long as the next dose is not too near as to cause a double dose in medication. Avoid taking double doses to make up for a missed intake.

Overdose.

In case an overdose of Zyban is suspected, immediately seek medical help. Indications of overdose include seizures, hallucinations, rapid and uneven heartbeat, heart failure, muscle stiffness, fainting, shallow breathing, or coma.

Storage.

Store Zyban within normal room temperatures, away from direct sources of heat and moisture. Keep the medication in a tightly-capped container.