Drugs for Smoking Cessation Therapy

Question 1

List 3 types of drugs that can be used for smoking cessation therapy.

Answer 1

nicotine, buPROPion (Zyban), varenicline (Chantix)

Question 2

Length of time needed for smoking cessation therapy

Answer 2

7-12 weeks (nicotine and buPROPion)

Question 3

What are some major consequences of smoking?

Answer 3

lung cancer, oral cancer, lowered estrogen levels, heart disease, periodontal disease

Question 4

Dental considerations: Discuss oral and general side effects related to the use of nicotine.

Answer 4

raises CV risk, it’s a potent vasoconstrictor

Question 5

Dental considerations: Discuss drug interactions related to the use of nicotine.

Answer 5

must stop smoking prior to nicotine treatment, contraindicated for children, prego, any CV issues

Question 6

buPROPion (Zyban): mechanism of action

Answer 6

dopamine reuptake inhibitor

Question 7

Dental considerations: Discuss oral and general side effects related to the use of bupropion.

Answer 7

emergent HTN with concurrent patch use and seizures are risks of this treatment

Question 8

Dental considerations: Discuss drug interactions related to the use of bupropion.

Answer 8

take BP before administering Epinepherine, also avoid alcohol (risk for seizures)

Question 9

varenicline (Chantix): mechanism of action

Answer 9

partial neuronal alpha4 B2 nicotinic receptor agonist. It occupies nicotine receptor sites in the brain resulting in decreased craving and withdrawal symptoms

Question 10

Dental considerations: Discuss oral and general side effects related to the use of varenicline.

Answer 10

xerostomia, taste alteration, insomnia, headache, abnormal dreams, nausea, suicidal ideation, erratic/aggressive behavior and adverse cardiovascular events.

Question 11

Dental considerations: Discuss drug interactions related to the use of varenicline.

Answer 11

increased side effects when used with nicotine therapy, xerostomia, taste alter, insominia, headache, abnormal dreams and nausea