More than 70 percent of people who smoke want to quit, according to the American Cancer Society, or ACS. Only 4 to 7 percent of them will be able to without assistance. Several options are available to help people stop smoking, including support groups, classes, Internet resources and over-the-counter and prescription medications. Nicotine replacement medicines come in the form of gum, lozenges and patches, and all are available in drug stores. There are also prescription medications available, including Chantix, Zyban and nicotine inhalers and nasal spray.
Chantix
Chantix, known generically as varenicline, is a drug that blocks the action of nicotine in a smoker's brain. It reduces pleasurable feelings from smoking and lessens withdrawal symptoms. It also blocks the brain's nicotine receptors so smoking is less enjoyable, which may reduce the desire to resume smoking, explains MayoClinic.com. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting, difficulty sleeping, vivid dreams and headaches. In 2008, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an alert that Chantix can cause serious psychiatric symptoms such as anxiety, tension, depression, abnormal behavior and suicidal thoughts or actions. In clinical trials 23 percent of subjects remained smoke-free one year after the drug was stopped.
Zyban
Zyban, known known generically as bupropion, is classified as an antidepressant medication. It is also used to help people stop smoking. Common side effects include dry mouth, nervousness, excitement, constipation, difficulty sleeping and weight loss. Serious but uncommon side effects include seizure, a fast and pounding heartbeat and fever. Zyban carries an FDA warning of possible serious changes in behavior including anger, hostility, panic, agitation, restlessness and suicidal thoughts or actions. In a study reported by the ACS, 30 percent of smokers remained smoke-free one year after treatment.
Nicotine Inhaler
Nicotine is the addictive chemical in cigarette smoke. The nicotine inhaler is a nicotine replacement product that helps a smoker to quit by replacing nicotine previously obtained from cigarettes, reducing withdrawal symptoms and the desire to smoke. The inhaler uses a hand-held device to deliver puffs of nicotine into the mouth and throat. As the smoker adjusts to being cigarette-free, the dose is gradually reduced over several weeks. Common side effects include throat irritation, heartburn, burping and indigestion. Less common side effects include difficulty sleeping, anxiety, depression and dizziness. It is only available by prescription.
Nicotine Nasal Spray
Nicotine nasal spray is a form of nicotine replacement therapy that is delivered in a liquid that is sprayed into the nose. It works in the same way as the nicotine inhaler. Common side effects include sneezing, coughing, watery eyes, runny nose and a peppery feeling in the back of the throat. A possible serious side effect is a rapid heart rate. Nicotine nasal spray lessens withdrawal symptoms from quitting, and the dose is gradually reduced as the smoker gets used to being without cigarettes. It is only available by prescription.
