If you want to quit smoking but don’t know how, this article can help. It provides an overview of cessation methods proven to help people quit smoking. It also describes steps to help you prepare for quitting.
Medication works
Nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT) and medications without nicotine can reliably help people overcome tobacco dependence. In fact, medications can double your chances of success.
NRT gives you a measured dose of nicotine, which is the addictive ingredient in tobacco. It works by replacing the nicotine you get from smoking, thereby reducing cravings and easing symptoms of withdrawal so you can focus on quitting. You use less NRT over time to gradually decrease your body’s dependence on nicotine.
NRT comes in 5 forms: gum, inhaler, lozenge, nasal spray and patch. The gum and lozenge can be purchased over-the-counter (OTC). The inhaler and nasal spray are prescription-only. The patch comes in both OTC and prescription forms. Some people wrongly think that NRT is harmful because it contains nicotine. But science shows that NRT is safe and works at helping people quit smoking.
Bupropion SR, also known as Zyban, comes only by prescription. It changes the brain chemistry, thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms and the urge to smoke.
Varenicline, also known as Chantix®, comes only by prescription. It mimics nicotine’s action on the brain, thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms, and also blocks nicotine’s effect on the brain, making smoking less rewarding.
Most people can use cessation medications to help them quit. But each medication is different and has specific precautions, reasons for not using, and side effects to consider. Certain products may be easier for you to use or afford. Your doctor can help you choose a medication that is right for you. Medication guides also are available online.
If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, talk to your doctor before using any medication. Your doctor can talk to you about quitting methods that are safe and effective during pregnancy.
Counseling works
For many people, smoking behaviors are harder to overcome than tobacco dependence. Counseling can help you identify your smoking triggers and how to avoid them. You can also learn practical skills to overcome cravings and prevent relapse. Counseling can also provide you with support and feedback along the way. Moreover, the more counseling you have, the less likely you will relapse.
Counseling comes in many forms, so you can pick one that suits your lifestyle. You may like one-on-one coaching or a supportive group environment. Telephone counseling, such as “quit lines”, are also effective.
Medication plus counseling works best
A combination of medication and counseling will give you the best chance of quitting for good, which is why doctors recommend this approach.
If you want to quit smoking but don’t know how, this article can help. It provides an overview of cessation methods proven to help people quit smoking. It also describes steps to help you prepare for quitting.
Medication works
Nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT) and medications without nicotine can reliably help people overcome tobacco dependence. In fact, medications can double your chances of success.
NRT gives you a measured dose of nicotine, which is the addictive ingredient in tobacco. It works by replacing the nicotine you get from smoking, thereby reducing cravings and easing symptoms of withdrawal so you can focus on quitting. You use less NRT over time to gradually decrease your body’s dependence on nicotine.
NRT comes in 5 forms: gum, inhaler, lozenge, nasal spray and patch. The gum and lozenge can be purchased over-the-counter (OTC). The inhaler and nasal spray are prescription-only. The patch comes in both OTC and prescription forms. Some people wrongly think that NRT is harmful because it contains nicotine. But science shows that NRT is safe and works at helping people quit smoking.
Bupropion SR, also known as Zyban, comes only by prescription. It changes the brain chemistry, thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms and the urge to smoke.
Varenicline, also known as Chantix®, comes only by prescription. It mimics nicotine’s action on the brain, thereby reducing withdrawal symptoms, and also blocks nicotine’s effect on the brain, making smoking less rewarding.
Most people can use cessation medications to help them quit. But each medication is different and has specific precautions, reasons for not using, and side effects to consider. Certain products may be easier for you to use or afford. Your doctor can help you choose a medication that is right for you. Medication guides also are available online.
If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, talk to your doctor before using any medication. Your doctor can talk to you about quitting methods that are safe and effective during pregnancy.
Counseling works
For many people, smoking behaviors are harder to overcome than tobacco dependence. Counseling can help you identify your smoking triggers and how to avoid them. You can also learn practical skills to overcome cravings and prevent relapse. Counseling can also provide you with support and feedback along the way. Moreover, the more counseling you have, the less likely you will relapse.
Counseling comes in many forms, so you can pick one that suits your lifestyle. You may like one-on-one coaching or a supportive group environment. Telephone counseling, such as “quit lines”, are also effective.
Medication plus counseling works best
A combination of medication and counseling will give you the best chance of quitting for good, which is why doctors recommend this approach.