Zyban was originally an anti-depressant drug known as
Wellbutrin. Doctors noticed that some of their patients who had been taking
Wellbutrin had spontaneously stopped smoking. After that, the drug was
successfully tested for its smoking -cessation effects and repackaged as
“Zyban” when prescribed for that purpose.
Zyban works by reducing smokers’ desire for cigarettes. It may take a couple
of weeks for that effect to kick in, so you should start taking Zyban two weeks
before your quit date.
The anti-depressant effect of Zyban may also help some smokers get through
the emotional difficulties of quitting.
Zyban does have some side effects, though, and it isn’t for everyone. So if
you’re interested, do discuss it with your doctor (which you’ll have to do
anyway because Zyban is available by prescription only).
Social Support
Studies have shown that social support helps smokers quit
successfully.
Some people rely primarily or exclusively on their families and friends for
support. Other people prefer to join stop-smoking groups.
You can find a group or class in your area by calling the American Lung
Association, or by doing a web search.
You could also join an online support site. QuitNet.com is a very popular
site that operates in association with the Boston University School of Public
Health. You can join as a basic member for free. Premium paid memberships are
also available, but the basic free membership is fine for an individual. It’s
mostly corporations that enroll their employees in premium plans.
There are many other online support sites, including the Google Group,
(formerly newsgroup), alt.support.stop-smoking.
You will get the greatest benefits out of participating in an online support
site if you engage actively in the discussions, both seeking and offering
support.