FDA Urged to OK Anti-Smoking Drug
From Times Staff and Wire Reports
A federal panel recommended approval of an antidepressant as the first non-nicotine drug to help people quit smoking. Bupropion, sold as Wellbutrin for treating depression, is safe and effective for the new use, the FDA’s Drug Abuse Advisory Committee voted unanimously. The FDA is not bound to accept the recommendation. Researchers report a success rate of 38% to 58% for people using bupropion to quit smoking, compared with a 10% average by other means.
