Bupropion (Zyban®)

What is bupropion?

Bupropion SR (or just bupropion), available as the brand-name version Zyban or generic, is a quit smoking medication that does not contain nicotine. It is available in tablets by prescription only.

Bupropion is also the active ingredient in Wellbutrin. Wellbutrin comes in different doses and is not prescribed to help people quit tobacco.

How does bupropion work?

• Bupropion does not contain nicotine. It fools the receptors in your brain into thinking they have gotten a dose of nicotine, which makes cravings less intense and less frequent.

How can I get bupropion?

• If you have insurance, most health plans offer quitting medication at no or very low cost to members. Call the number on the back of your insurance card to check on your benefits.
• You’ll need to get a prescription from your healthcare provider to use bupropion, whether or not it is covered by insurance.