Wellbutrin to quit smoking?

[Marie01]

I went for a physical last week and my BP was extremely high. It's always been borderline, but now it's way up there. My cholesterol is also borderline high. I smoke a little over a pack a day. My Dr wants me to quit smoking asap. I've started on BP meds and he wants to start me on Wellbutrin to help me quit smoking. He says that it really helps alot of people. I'm supposed to take it for two weeks and then try to stop. Have any of you used Wellbutrin as an aide to help you stop smoking? If so..... what were the results?

[illbeback]

Well, Marie, we're in the same boat. I've been on BP meds for a couple years and for some reason started smoking again during that time even though it's terrible for the BP!

Anyway, I got Wellbutrin and it is absolutely fantastic...for me. First of all, I was VERY motivated to stop (quitting other drugs, so I want to clean up my entire lifestyle during this process). Second, it totally takes the edge off. Sure, I'd LOVE a cig right now. But, not really. I'm chewing a Nicorette, I'm feeling better, I can smell my wife's bread cooking downstairs, etc.

Give it your best! Believe in yourself and you can do it! It sucks, but you can do it!

[Wolfstarr]

Hi Marie.

I tired Wellbutrin as an adjunct to my therapy for depression. It honestly helped. I lost desire for a smoke and wasn't consumed by thoughts of ciggs and smoking, so it was an added benefit for me.

Good luck to you and yes, you can do it!

[historyteach]

Hi, Marie;
I, too, take welbutrin/zyban. And yes, I found it very helpful -- as long as I wanted to quit. Without that desire, there is no magic pill.

Smoking does indeed increase the BP and the cholesterol. Quitting will help these problems, and more, like sugar. We know that smoking invades every cell in our bodies, and causes all kinds of problems.

Do you want to quit? Really?
If so, there's lots of really good information right here on this site to help you. There's also a ton of support. And a daily check in to keep you motivated.

Quitting smoking is tough. But, honestly, I think the *anticipation* of the quit is worse than the actual. Yes, you WILL experience cravings. And I strongly suggest a smoke cessation group. There you will learn behavior modifications to aid in your quit. I have found my group to be extrememly helpful, and post about what I've learned here regularly. But, you will get past those cravings. They are a temporary consequence that you can deal with.

Please let us know if you want to quit. And join us here. We know where it is you're going and can help light the path. ANd we care.

Shalom!

[Marie01]

Thanks so much for the pep talk! I'm going to give it my best shot! Besides all the harm I know I'm doing to my body by smoking.... I keep thinking about all the money I could be saving by not buying a carton of cigarettes every week. Money that could be well spent on other things

[historyteach]

You're making a good choice.
Now, just a little hint, ok? Language matters. Don't say you're going to "try." Say you're going to "quit." Be assertive and positive in the idea that you CAN do this. Because you can.
And we're here to support your decision.
Oh, as for the money, well, I've already bought a new chaise lounge and took a trip to FL on my savings! Do put the money aside. You'll be surprised at how fast it adds up!

Shalom!