Effect of Bupropion Treatment on Brain Activation Induced by Cigarette-Related Cues in Smokers

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Abstract
Originally marketed as an atypical antidepressant, bupropion hydrochloride was found to enhance smoking cessation in patients with depression and is now the most commonly recommended nonnicotinic pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation in the world.1 Bupropion improves quit rates2-4 and prolongs abstinence in nicotine-dependent smokers.5,6 Standard 8-week treatment with bupropion (administered with brief counseling) results in approximately 40% short-term abstinence (7 weeks)3 and 20% to 30% long-term abstinence (12 months).4,7,8 Smokers treated with bupropion describe a reduction in nicotine withdrawal symptoms including negative affect, urge to smoke, difficulty concentrating, and irritability.9,10 Numerous studies encompassing a wide spectrum of clinical populations have replicated the success of treatment with bupropion,11-15 suggesting a common mechanism by which this medication facilitates smoking cessation.