Bupropion and Nicotine Patch as Smoking Cessation Aids in Alcoholics

Authors

Kathleen M. Grant, Veterans Administration Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System (Omaha site), Omaha, NE, 68105, USA
Stephanie Sinclair Kelley, Veterans Administration Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System (Omaha site), Omaha, NE, 68105, USA
Lynette M. Smith, Preventive and Societal Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NEFollow
Sangeeta Agrawal, College of Nursing, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, 68198, USA
James R. Meyer, Veterans Administration Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System (Omaha site), Omaha, NE, 68105, USA
Debra J. Romberger, Veterans Administration Nebraska Western Iowa Health Care System (Omaha site), Omaha, NE, 68105, USA

Date of this Version

8-2007

Comments

Published in Alcohol 2007 August ; 41(5): 381–391.

Abstract

This is a double blind placebo controlled study of sustained release bupropion as a smoking cessation aid in alcoholics undergoing treatment for their alcoholism. Participants (N=58) were enrolled within one week of entry into alcohol treatment from community and Veterans Affairs Substance Use Disorder programs. All participants received nicotine patch and were invited to attend a smoking cessation lecture and group. Cigarette smoking and alcohol outcomes were measured at six months. Bupropion when added to nicotine patch did not improve smoking outcomes. One-third of participants on bupropion reported discontinuing the drug during weeks 1-4. Participants reported cigarette outcomes with nicotine patch which are similar to those seen in the general population. All study participants significantly reduced cigarette use. Co-morbid affective disorder or antipersonality disorder did not affect outcomes. Alcohol outcomes were improved in those who discontinued cigarettes.