Effects of sustained-release bupropion and supportive group therapy on cigarette consumption in patients with schizophrenia

Objective: The study examined the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of sup portive group psychotherapy and adjunctive sustained-release bupropion for nicotine addiction in patients with schizophrenia. Method: Eight patients participated in a 14-week open-label trial. End expi red breath carbon monoxide level, symptom levels, neuropsychological perfor mance, and suppression of the P50 event-related potential were measured bef ore and after the 14-week trial. Results: Patients showed a decrease in carbon monoxide levels that was not associated with any worsening in symptom, neuropsychological, or P50 suppre ssion measures. Conclusions: Use of sustained-release bupropion in combination with support ive group therapy may help patients with schizophrenia decrease their cigar ette consumption.