Zyban VS Champix

When comparing the benefits and drawbacks of Zyban vs Champix, it’s important to know what the side effects are and what the success rate is of each. Here are some side effects common to both Zyban and Champix:

Mood Changes

Both Zyban and Champix users may experience mood and behavior changes and may experience depression, homicidal or suicidal thoughts. Alcohol use may increase the likelihood of this reaction. If you or a family member taking Zyban or Champix notice any hostility, personality changes or homicidal or suicidal thoughts, the FDA requests that they contact a doctor right away. The FDA in fact allowed the drug to come to market without testing on those suffering from depression and other mental health diseases. This year (2011) the FDA is requiring Pfizer to include a more diverse subject population and test the drug again.

Skin Rashes

Skin rashes are another potential side effect f both drugs. Champix is associated with Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), deadly skin rash, and allergic type skin rashes. Zyban also causes skin rashes and SJS is listed as a rare side effect. SJS can be deadly so be sure to contact your doctor if you develop any kind of rash while using the product.

Nausea

This is listed as the most common side effect of Champix and one of the lesser common side effects of Zyban. Other gastric problems, such as constipation and flatulence are listed separately from nausea, but may be related.

Difficulty Sleeping

Both Zyban and Champix list this side effect as one of the more common. Some offer a suggestion not to take the drug near bedtime. Zyban is responsible for 35 to 40 percent of users experiencing this symptom. Many also experience vivid dreams with both drugs as well.

Dry Mouth

Both drugs can also cause dry mouth.

What the drug manufacturers don’t explain is what chemical reactions are likely causing these reactions. As far as which is more effective, neither is very effective without a well thought out quit plan and counseling, only about 14 to 25 percent are still non-smokers a year later. A plan may help you quit without drugs and the risks of the dangerous side effects that go with taking the drugs.
Resources:
http://www.pharmalot.com/2008/02/chantix-and-suicide-the-latest-numbers/
http://www.chantix-legal.com/news/2009/05/05/pfizer-might-fund-study-of-...
http://www.drugs.com/sfx/chantix-side-effects.html
http://www.acsh.org/factsfears/newsid.2457/news_detail.a
http://whyquit.com/pr/061411.html
http://www.chantix-legal.com/news/2011/05/31/chantix-suicides-and-violen...
http://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/bupropion-hydrochloride-zyban-for...
http://www.quitsmoking.com/zyban/index.htm
http://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/bupropion-hydrochloride-zyban-for...
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0PDG/is_8_9/ai_n55129854/

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