If you smoke, you're probably aware that it would benefit your health to quit. The risks of smoking in terms of heart disease, lung cancer and countless other health conditions, are indisputable. Yet, giving up this costly and harmful habit is difficult, even with support and tools. Currently, there are prescription medications designed to help smokers to quit. According to Drugs.com, the two prescription drugs available in the United States, Chantix and Zyban, may significantly increase your chances of quitting successfully. However, both drugs have side effects, which you should discuss with your doctor prior to starting a course of treatment.
Step 1
Start taking the drug one week before your quit date. According to Drugs.com, both Chantix and Zyban are intended to be taken before you stop smoking. According to HelpWithSmoking.com, this is to allow the drug to reach its full level of strength in the body. During the first week, you will continue to smoke. With Chantix, you'll increase your dosage after three days, and then again after four days, Drugs.com reports.
Step 2
Quit smoking. As the levels of the medication build-up in your body, you will find that you don't want to smoke as much. At one week, you should stop smoking. If you're taking Zyban and feel unable to quit at one week, you should do so as soon after that as possible, reports HelpWithSmoking.com. Waiting too long can decrease your chances of success and make the transition more difficult. At one week, you will increase your dosage of Zyban.
Step 3
Continue taking your medication for up to 24 weeks. In the case of Chantix, you will remain on your medication for between 12 and 24 weeks, and with Zyban, you should take the drug for an additional seven to 12 weeks or more. During this time, you will have quit smoking. Drugs.com recommends you increase your support and chances of success through live, one-on-one telephone counseling. This resource is available along with various smoking cessation products, both prescription and over-the-counter.
Tips and Warnings
- Enjoy activities you couldn't do while smoking. Drugs.com recommends you enjoy sports or high exertion activities that you may not have been able to do before you quit.
- Watch for side effects. Both Chantix and Zyban have potential for serious side effects, such as depression. If you notice any signs of depression, talk to your doctor right away.
