R-003: Antidepressants for smoking cessation
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Research ID | R-003 |
| Authors | Hughes JR, Stead LF, Hartmann-Boyce J, Cahill K, Lancaster T |
| Year | 2014 |
| Journal / publisher | Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews |
| DOI | 10.1002/14651858.CD000031.pub3 |
| PMID | Not reported |
| ISBN | Not reported |
| Research type | Systematic Review |
| Evidence strength | Strong |
| Population | Not reported |
| Intervention | Not reported |
| Comparator | Not reported |
| Last verified | 2026-10-04 |
Main question
Do antidepressants, particularly bupropion, help people quit smoking?
Main findings
Bupropion roughly doubles quit rates compared with placebo and is effective regardless of depression history. Nortriptyline also helps; other antidepressants show less evidence.
Limitations
Bupropion is less effective than varenicline and combination NRT in indirect comparisons; contraindications apply.
Why this record matters
Not reported
Related topics
Quit Smoking Medications; Bupropion
Source
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD000031.pub3/full