Hundreds of adverse effects to anti-smoking drug Zyban reported

A Federal Government committee monitoring the anti-smoking drug Zyban, has had almost 800 reports of adverse reactions, in the seven months since the drug became available.

There have been nine deaths which may be associated with the use of the drug.

The Adverse Drug Reaction Committee in the Health Department says skin reactions, psychological disturbances and nervous system disorders are the most common reactions.

A report by Dr Elizabeth Benson in today's Medical Journal of Australia, says publicity about the drug caused a rapid take-up of the drug.

More than 200,000 prescriptions were issued to the end of March this year.

Dr Benson says the reports highlight the importance of post marketing surveillance, especially when a drug is used on a large number of people in a short period of time.

© 1999 Australian Broadcasting Corporation