21.04 Bupropion

Another agent that has been available for some time for smoking cessation is bupropion (Zybab). Bupropion was developed as an anti-depressant, but was not very effective in depression. Bupropion releases dopamine in the brain, and also inhibits N_N receptors in brain, and these properties suggested that it may be useful in smoking cessation.

After oral administration, the smoking cessation at one year was 11% in the placebo group and 22% in the bupropion group. Bupropion may reduce the weight gain normally observed with smoking cessation. Bupropion has been controversial and is now contraindicated in patients with epilepsy, or in those with a predisposition to seizures e.g. alcohol abusers.

In conclusion, we are still looking for an effective and save drug to promote smoking cessation.