Question:
Zyban to stop smoking

Hi Everyone: I was wondering if anyone has used Zyban to stop smoking. I would like to use this pill, but am extremely concerned. According to the literature, anyone who has bulimia should not take this pill, as it may cause seizures. As former WLS patients, we are always in danger of throwing up, sometimes several times a week. Has anyone taken Zyban, and how did it work for them? Thanks guys. Love Grace    — Grace H. (posted on January 10, 2003)

January 10, 2003
I have not tried Zyban, but I did use Welbutrin. I have depression. My DR. chose this one. I never ever really tried to quit, but 6 months after starting to take it I just did. That was July 1997. Still smoke free. It can cause temors etc. with higher doses though.
   — Donna O.

January 10, 2003
Hi Grace, I have not ever smoked but my Mother took Zyban several years ago and our lives became awful. She started having hallucinations and freaking out. We had to hospitalize her and she did not even know her own family! It finally turned out to be the Zyban that was causing all of the problems. I also met a lady a few days later at the pharmacy and she said the exact same thing happened to her when she tried it. My mom had not had WLS but the drug just terrifies me because of what my mom went through. I would NEVER recommend that anyone take it. Just my opinion, though. Best of luck.
   — Toni T.

January 10, 2003
I used Zyban and Wellbutrin to quit smoking on 2 occasions prior to my WLS. I never had any problems either time but I know your question deals with post-op. Just wanted to present a positive side to it. Worked well both times and this time I've been off the cigs for 7 mos.
   — Nell C.

January 10, 2003
Zyban and Wellbutrin are the same drug. Just be sure NOT to get the sustained-release form... they're not properly absorbed by gastric bypass patients because we don't produce enough stomach acid. You may feel agitated when you first take it, but that will go away within a few weeks. The terrible side-effects other ppl have mentioned can happen, but they are relatively rare (but NOT fun, of course!). You can even take it if your are taking some other antidepressants too (like the SSRIs), but with your doctor's knowledge, of course.
   — Patricia E.

January 10, 2003
Hi Grace. I have been taking Welbutrin (same drug as Zyban, Zyban is marketed for stop smoking and Welbutrin is marketed for depression, most insurances won't cover Zyban but will cover Welbutrin just a tip, I work in the medical field) for a couple weeks not to quit smoking and I am doing fine. I have not quit yet but I feel fine. Good Luck.
   — Dawn L.

January 11, 2003
I was on welbutrin which is the same as Zyban. I loved it!! I was able to quit smoking (been smokefree 2 months) and my depression was under controll again!! Everyone having surgery.... your having the surgery to get healthy right??? Well my surgeon said he would not do the surgery if i couldnt quit smoking. i want to be healthy! I'm a big baby... dont need any complications!!!! Do it for yourself!!! plus if after you have surgery then pick up smoking again it'll be more likly to cause an ulser in your new pouch!!! Do something goodfor yourself!!!! Quit now and tell yourself your never gonna waste your money!!
   — Jennifer Q.