Patient Understanding of the Neuropsychiatric Risks Associated with Branded Bupropion Hydrochloride Products Used for...

Bupropion hydrochloride (Zyban) is an effective aid to smoking cessation; however, its use has previously been associated with neuropsychiatric adverse events. Here we report results of the patient Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behavior survey that forms part of the Year 7 Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) assessment for Zyban.

Assess participants' understanding of the neuropsychiatric risks associated with branded bupropion hydrochloride products that are used for smoking cessation, as described in the Medication Guides.

A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients ≥ 18 years of age, who had used or filled a prescription for branded bupropion hydrochloride for smoking cessation in the past 6 months. Participants were recruited through an online panel, pharmacy network, or by healthcare provider referral, and invited to complete a survey containing questions regarding the risks associated with the use of branded bupropion hydrochloride products, and whether they had received and read the Medication Guide. The study aimed for ≥ 80% of participants to respond correctly to each question regarding neuropsychiatric risks.

From the 50,985 survey invitations distributed, 1017 participants responded, of whom 144 were eligible and 142 completed the survey. Over 80% of participants correctly responded to most neuropsychiatric risk questions. Approximately three-quarters of participants received the Medication Guide when they last filled their prescription, of whom over half read the Medication Guide at that time.

Participants enrolled in this Year 7 REMS survey had good understanding of the neuropsychiatric risks associated with using branded bupropion hydrochloride products for smoking cessation.