People who want to quit smoking and escape their nicotine dependence have a variety of treatments available. People should not worry if they cannot quit on their first attempt. Many smokers have made several attempts before becoming successful at overcoming their addiction, because treatments were available. One approach may work for some people, and combining strategies may have a stronger effect for others.
Nicotine Replacement
Nicotine replacement therapy uses doses of nicotine without the other harmful substances in tobacco smoke to relieve the physical withdrawal symptoms that occur when quitting smoking, according to the Mayo Clinic. Smokers who quit are able to focus on eluding the emotional attachment to nicotine, such as smoking at certain times and during periods of stress or relaxation. Nicotine patches are worn to deliver nicotine into the bloodstream. The treatment lasts for several weeks. Nicotine gums relieve cravings by sending nicotine into the bloodstream. The person can also use the gum as a replacement for cigarettes. Nicotine lozenges are placed between the gum line and the cheek to deliver nicotine through the mouth. The lozenges slowly dissolve. Patches, gums and lozenges are available over the counter. Prescription replacements include nicotine nasal sprays that are sprayed into the nostrils for nicotine delivery into the blood vessels. Prescribed nicotine inhalers are shaped like a cigarette holder. The nicotine vapor goes into the mouth and enters the bloodstream.
Medication
Certain medications that do not contain nicotine help with withdrawal symptoms from nicotine, the Mayo Clinic explains. Antidepressants may increase the brain chemicals that bring the pleasurable effects from nicotine. Bupropion is a medication that helps prevent weight gain often seen in smokers who quit. The medication may be used with nicotine replacement therapy. Varenicline reduces the pleasure effects from smoking and decreases withdrawal symptoms by working on the brain's nicotine receptors. Doctors may prescribe clonidine, used to treat high blood pressure, when other medications do not work. It has sedative and drowsiness side effects.
Support
Primary care physicians play an effective role by advising patients to give up smoking, the Cleveland Clinic explains. They can inquire about the smoking practices by patients and ask about their willingness to quit. Patients who may not have thought about quitting can learn about the potential risks of smoking and begin a process to end nicotine dependence. Joining a smoking cessation program gives the smoker a better chance of quitting, according to the New York Times. Workplaces, community groups, health departments and hospitals offer the programs. Telephone and online counseling programs are available to encourage people to stay off nicotine, the Mayo Clinic points out. Individual and group counseling programs are available in communities. Counselors help teach techniques for quitting. Support groups include ex-smokers who discuss how they deal with nicotine withdrawal and share experiences on how to stay nicotine-free.
