Smoking is a habit that is difficult to quit. I was a heavy chain smoker used to puffing away at least two packets of cigarettes daily. My nicotine addiction was intense that I would sneak out of the office for a couple of successive puffs just to calm my shaking nerves. It is not because I didn’t understand the risks I exposed to my body organs; not with all the horror stories about lung and heart complications.
After about 20 years of smoking, I started falling ill more often than usual. Some of the common symptoms were chest pain, shortness of breath, blood in the cough, swallowing difficulties, persistent coughing, among others. On seeking medical attention, the doctors unleashed the bombshell: nicotine dependency was gradually affecting my respiratory system. The symptoms pointed towards serious complications, and even possible lung cancer and heart problems. It is at this point that the reality sunk in; I was not just risking my life, but that of my beautiful wife and children. Something had to be done.
To help me quit smoking, the doctors recommended admitting to a rehabilitation center, but I declined. The worst thing about addiction is acceptance. They recommended a program that would allow me to cut on the number of cigarettes I used to smoke in a day gradually over a period of time. Unfortunately, sticking to some of these programs can be difficult. With the craving and the serious withdrawal symptoms I was experiencing, I really needed a solution that would work. It is at this point that Zyban Bupropion was prescribed.
What is Zyban Bupropion?
The idea of using some drug to quit the bad habit of smoking excited me. I searched about the drug and discovered that it is actually an antidepressant that is equally useful in helping one cease smoking. The doctor explained that the drug can actually inhibit the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine, the two neurotransmitters that control the mood. However, the drug doesn’t affect the inhibition of monoamine oxidase and serotonin reuptake. Through this mechanisms, dopamine levels in the brain increase, replacing cravings caused by nicotine withdrawal. The basis of Zyban mechanisms is basically an effective management of nicotine cravings.
I have had numerous sessions with medical practitioners in my life, but I have to confess that this was the most important consultation session ever. In fact, I felt so reassured about my resolve to quit smoking because I understood well why previous attempts had failed. The doctor further explained that, studies show using the drug during smoking cessation had proven to be more effective and successful than counseling and even rehabilitation. To boost efficiency, he recommended the combination of Bupropion and nicotine patches (they are usually recommended for extreme cases of cessation).
Just like that, I got my first prescription. Thereafter, a friend introduced me to https://www.meds4sure.com/
For three months, Zyban Bupropion became my number one remedy against smoking. The results weren’t instant because I would occasionally have the cravings, but fight them off. I was in touch all the time with the doctor for guidance. Whenever I missed a dose, he would ask me on whether to take or skip altogether before resuming the normal dosage schedule. I was advised against taking a number of medicines during this period to avoid risks of a drug interaction. When I eventually managed a whole day without a single stick or puff of cigarette, I saw the victory against smoking.
Did I experience any side effects?
I experienced a number of side effects, but the severity of most of them reduced with the continued treatment. Some of the most common ones were mild headaches, dizziness, insomnia, nausea, anxiety, and abdominal pain. Chills, tremors, diarrhea, and vomiting were other side effects I experienced. Note that this list is not conclusive as there are other adverse reactions that exist. It is therefore important to consult your doctor, read and understand dosage instructions to avoid the side effects of Zyban.
Useful tips
Zyban Bupropion can be taken either with food or without. As for me, I always took this drug with my meals.
- To avoid possible insomnia, I was advised against taking the medicine in the evening. Instead, I stuck to mornings and afternoon for the twice daily dosage. This way, I was able to keep the nicotine at bay and enjoy a good night sleep.
- Initially, you should start with a low dose, which should be adjusted upward with time and upon close observation of the body’s response. During the control-release period, you must keep your doctor informed and adhere to the dosage instructions.
- I always took my drug at the same time, every day and as per the doctor’s instruction. Well, I somehow developed that habit only to realize that it was more efficient and helped boost absorption.
- There was no magic. I didn’t quit smoking before commencing the treatment. Instead, I was advised to set a specific day to quit and gradually reduce the number of cigarettes I used to smoke daily. Doing this helps the body adapt to the drug and rise the levels of Zyban. This is not easy; don’t be ambitious in your target.
- Have a clear goal on your intentions, in this case, quitting smoking entirely. It is easy to fall back to a bad habit, but your goal must be total abstinence after the treatment. It might not be easy, but it is possible. I am a living testimony.
- Stay away from alcohol and drugs. You cannot solve one problem by encouraging another. These substances are equally addictive.
- You should also keep yourself busy and brain occupied with other activities. Ideally, think about a hobby and start passing time doing something you love. As for me, I rediscovered my passion for writing and would pass hours typing away on my laptops instead of puffing away cigarettes.
- Never shy away from seeking medical attention. Doctors and other specialists are there to make your life better. Consult them.
Bottom line
I always tell people trying to quit smoking not to expect miracles. It can be a long boring journey. Persistence is very important, and you must closely monitor the progress of the medication. As you fight the urge to light the next cigarette, don’t forget to take the medicine consistently. Don’t lose hope if your attempts are not fruitful because they will eventually. Today, I celebrate 2 years of freedom from nicotine. I feel like a new person every day.