How to Stop Smoking With an Aid

Overview

Smoked tobacco (whether in the form of cigarettes, pipe tobacco or other forms) is an extremely efficient drug delivery system. Smoking releases a number of compounds into your body, some of which are very addictive. Many people find that various aids can help them both with the physical and the psychological effects of quitting smoking.

Step 1

Use a nicotine replacement product. Nicotine is a compound that can be found in tobacco and is extremely addictive. Consequently, when you try to quit smoking, your body will go into withdrawal, causing you to feel cravings for tobacco. There are a wide variety of products, which include nicotine patches, gum, lozenges and nasal sprays, can all help provide measured doses of nicotine. Patches release a constant amount of nicotine in your system, whereas the other products can be used as needed. Use these products (according to the directions on the package, because each product is different) to help relieve your physical urge to smoke.

Step 2

Avoid your "psychological triggers." Nicotine addiction is only one obstacle for patients that want to quit smoking. For many smokers, there are also times and situations (also known as psychological triggers) that cause them to want to smoke. Try to identify the periods and situations during the day when you typically smoke. If possible, avoid these situations (such as being around other smokers) and mentally prepare yourself for them before they occur.

Step 3

Utilize other prescription aids. Bupropion is one type of medication that can be used to fight the nicotine cravings (though it contains no nicotine itself). Another recently approved medication is called Chantix, which also contains no nicotine.

Step 4

Undergo behavioral change programs. There are a number of organizations that can help smokers make small changes in their day-to-day life to help them quit smoking. These groups also provide support for smokers to help them resist the temptation to smoke. Many of these groups are sponsored by the federal government and cost nothing to join.