Posted by OPTCKID on January 5, 2017, at 22:04:43
In reply to Vitamin D, Smoking and Dopamine..., posted by moomin68 on June 20, 2010, at 14:58:24
The reason Wellbutrin reduces nicotine cravings is because it is a nicotine receptor antagonist.
When nicotine receptors are agonized they cause dopamine to flood reward centers of the brain which is what causes the addiction to smoking. Nicotine receptor antagonists block the nicotine from activating the receptors, which prevents the dopamine release.
Anything that increases dopamine and/or enhances the function of dopamine receptors in the reward centers of the brain would cause nicotine to become even more addictive. Vitamin D regulates and enhances dopamine function in these reward centers.
My theory on Wellbutrin and cravings is that you need to take it for at least one year, 300mg xl (extended release). This allows the nicotine receptors to be blocked for a long enough period of time for the neuro circuitry become weakened from prolonged inactivity.
In severe cases a nicotine patch may be applied along with Wellbutrin temporarily. Key word, temporarily. Wean off of them as usual, but stay on the Wellbutrin for a while.
poster:OPTCKID
thread:1093850
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20161215/msgs/1093850.html