Dear Pharmacist,My pharmacist told me that my antidepressant, Wellbutrin, is the same medicine that my husband takes to stop smoking. Is this true?
M.M., Jacksonville, Florida
Answer: Yes. It’s a surprise to most people when they hear this. But there are a many drugs that are cleverly marketed to different populations and sold under different trade names. This is done because a particular substance could have various beneficial effects on the body. In your case, the active ingredient in Wellbutrin is the same compound in Zyban, a popular prescription remedy used to stop smoking. Dosing is similar with these two drugs and pricing is too…about $120 per month. Interestingly, insurance companies don’t mind paying for Wellbutrin, but don’t hold your breath with Zyban. Almost all insurance companies make you pay for that yourself.
Suzy Cohen, RPh, has been a licensed pharmacist for over 30 years, blending conventional medicine with natural approaches to help people feel better and live healthier. She is the founder of Script Essentials, a supplement company known for targeted, custom-formulated products, some with patented innovations.
With a special focus on thyroid health, functional medicine, and drug-induced nutrient depletion (what she calls “drug muggers”), Suzy is the author of several books including Thyroid Healthy, Drug Muggers, and Diabetes Without Drugs. She also writes a nationally syndicated health column and shares practical, easy-to-understand guidance with readers around the world.
