Stopping smoking is difficult, but several prescription medications can make the process a little easier. It is important to realize that even with these medications, smoking is a difficult habit to break, and not one you should expect to overcome without hard work. The Mayo Clinic reports that combining prescription medication with counseling increases your chance of success. Regardless of the method used to stop smoking, it takes a great deal of persistence to stop for good.
Chantrix
Chantrix works in two ways to help you quit smoking. According to the Mayo Clinic, Chantrix stimulates the body to release small amounts of dopamine, a chemical normally released when smoking. This helps lower the severity of side effects from not smoking. Chantrix also blocks the nicotine receptors located in the brain. This means that even if you slip up and have a cigarette, you will not receive the same pleasurable response from it that you normally do. Chantrix users may experience side effects such as nausea, vivid dreams and trouble sleeping and notice changes in the way foods taste.
Zyban
Zyban is a prescription drug originally used to treat seasonal affective disorder and depression. Doctors now prescribe Zyban to help reduce the withdrawal symptoms experienced when someone attempts to stop smoking. Doctors often recommend combining Zyban with nicotine-replacement products to improve the drug's effectiveness. Some people who take Zyban may develop side effects such as difficulty concentrating, nausea, dry mouth and changes in appetite. Notify your doctor if you develop side effects such as convulsions, hallucinations or suicidal thoughts.
Nicotine Inhaler and Nasal Spray
Nicotine gums and patches have been around for a while and are available over the counter. Nicotine inhalers and nasal sprays are available only by prescription. Their advantage over gums is that the absorption is quicker, so you are less tempted to light up at a weak moment. Their advantage over nicotine patches are that the dosage of nicotine through a patch remains relatively constant, while a nicotine inhaler or nasal spray creates a spike in nicotine and then a lowering amount. This is similar to the effect of an actual cigarette. Nicotine inhalers and nasal sprays contain lower levels of nicotine than a cigarette, and the absorption is not as rapid. They reduce withdrawal symptoms but are not a complete replacement for cigarettes. Nasal sprays and inhalers may burn the nasal tissue or throat or cause nausea.
