Typically, 70 to 80 percent of smokers who quit relapse within six to 12 months. But the multi-site study coordinated by Mayo researchers found that 55 percent of patients taking bupropion (a.k.a. Zyban) remained abstinent after a year, compared to 42 percent in a control group.

However, the relapse rate for both groups was about the same -- 40 percent -- after three years, leading researchers to wonder how long smokers should continue taking the antidepressant. The usual course of treatment calls for smokers to take Zyban for seven to 12 weeks.

The Zyban group also gained less weight than the control group.

The research was published in the Sept. 18 edition of the Annals of Internal Medicine.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for all, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post promotional links to organizations, products or services, or personal requests for assistance (get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.