Skip to content

Tobacco Dependence

Tobacco dependence is a condition in which nicotine drives repeated use and makes stopping hard. Nicotine reaches the brain quickly and triggers dopamine release, setting up a loop of craving, smoking and withdrawal. Many unsupported quit attempts end in relapse within days.

Medicine used to treat Tobacco Dependence

Wellbutrin

Bupropion

150 · 300mg

Wellbutrin contains bupropion as modified-release tablets for major depressive disorder and tobacco dependence. It is supplied in several strengths and pack sizes. You can compare the price per tablet across options.

FromUS$1.06/ tabletView

Key points

  • Nicotine reaches reward receptors quickly and triggers dopamine release, so craving and withdrawal persist beyond willpower.
  • Bupropion, an antidepressant, also reduces cravings and is taken by mouth as a tablet.
  • Irritability and poor concentration are worst during the first fortnight, then settle gradually across roughly a month.

How dependence develops

Repeated nicotine exposure keeps the reward pathway active, so the brain comes to expect it. Missing a cigarette brings withdrawal, and relieving that discomfort reinforces further smoking. That cycle, rather than simple habit, is what makes quitting hard.

What withdrawal involves

Irritability, poor concentration and strong urges to smoke are the usual difficulties. A steady routine, noting personal triggers and having a support plan in place all help, and combining these with medicine improves long-term success compared with medicine alone.

Treatment options

Bupropion acts on dopamine and noradrenaline pathways to reduce cravings. Treatment usually begins about a fortnight ahead of the quit date, so levels are steady by the time cravings peak. It is supplied as Wellbutrin tablets in 150 mg and 300 mg strengths, and is also used for major depressive disorder. Wider options are listed under addiction recovery. Orders are shipped to Malaysia by pharmacy partners in India in discreet packaging.

When to see a doctor

Anyone who has found earlier attempts difficult can ask a doctor or pharmacist about support. A doctor can assess whether medicine is appropriate and how it should be used alongside behavioural help.

Further reading

Last updated