The use of Buproprion for smoking cessation in rural NSW

Abstract

Smoking is a major cause of Australian deaths. After a quit attempt, 5-10% of smokers maintain abstinence. Brief advice or nicotine-replacement therapy behavioural support can increase success by a further 2-8%. Bupropion assists smoking cessation. Its use with behavioural therapy improves abstinence by 10-14% compared to placebo. We aimed to estimate the point-prevalence rate of abstinence for rural patients prescribed bupropion. Behavioural support is limited in rural areas. In 2001, slow-released bupropion (Zyban SR: Glaxo Smith Kline; Boronia, Victoria) was added to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme coinciding with more smokers requesting therapy.