Bupropion (Wellbutrin) vs Cold Turkey: Which Is Better for Quitting?

Bupropion (brand names Wellbutrin, Zyban) is an antidepressant that also reduces nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Studies show it approximately doubles quit rates compared to placebo, with about 19% success at 6 months. It's particularly useful for those concerned about weight gain or with depression history. With effectiveness rates of ~19% quit rate at 6 months, doubles success vs placebo, Bupropion (Wellbutrin) costs approximately $100-300 for 12-week course and begins working within 1-2 weeks. The difficulty level is considered Low-Moderate. Key advantages include: Reduces cravings and weight gain, helps mood, non-nicotine option. However, users should be aware of potential drawbacks: Requires prescription, seizure risk (rare), may cause insomnia. This approach is best suited for Those with depression history or weight gain concerns.

Cold turkey quitting means stopping all nicotine use immediately without any aids or gradual reduction. While it requires the most willpower, it eliminates nicotine from your system fastest. Research shows success rates of 3-5% at one year without support, though this increases with strong motivation and coping strategies. Research shows 3-5% long-term success rate effectiveness, with costs around $0 — completely free and effects beginning within Immediate. The difficulty level is rated as Very High. Primary benefits are: No cost at all, fastest nicotine elimination, no medication side effects. Potential limitations include: Intense withdrawal symptoms, lowest success rate, difficult to sustain. This method works best for Highly motivated individuals with strong support systems.

Effectiveness • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): ~19% quit rate at 6 months, doubles success vs placebo - Low-Moderate difficulty level • Cold Turkey: 3-5% long-term success rate - Very High difficulty level

Cost • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): $100-300 for 12-week course • Cold Turkey: $0 — completely free

Time to Work • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): 1-2 weeks • Cold Turkey: Immediate

Convenience • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): Reduces cravings and weight gain • Cold Turkey: No cost at all

Side Effects • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): Requires prescription • Cold Turkey: Intense withdrawal symptoms

Best For • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): Those with depression history or weight gain concerns • Cold Turkey: Highly motivated individuals with strong support systems

When comparing Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Cold Turkey, the best choice depends on your individual circumstances, nicotine dependence level, and personal preferences. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) offers ~19% quit rate at 6 months, doubles success vs placebo effectiveness with $100-300 for 12-week course cost, making it suitable for Those with depression history or weight gain concerns. Meanwhile, Cold Turkey provides 3-5% long-term success rate effectiveness at $0 — completely free, working best for Highly motivated individuals with strong support systems. For many quitters, combining approaches or trying one method before switching to another can improve overall success rates. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine which method aligns best with your medical history, quit goals, and support needs.

Regardless of whether you choose Bupropion (Wellbutrin) or Cold Turkey, PuffBye helps you track your progress, manage cravings, and stay motivated throughout your quit journey. The app works alongside any cessation method to give you real-time insights into your health recovery and money saved.