According to the American Cancer Society, nicotine, the drug naturally found in tobacco, is just as addictive as heroin and cocaine. Over time, it causes you to become both physically and emotionally dependent on cigarettes, making it hard for many smokers to quit and remain smoke-free (See Reference 1). A variety of treatments are available to help you quit, from nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to prescription medications. Choosing the right method for you is key to your success.
Treatment to Stop Smoking
Step 1
Apply the patch. The nicotine patch is a form of NRT and is available through prescription or can be bought over the counter. It comes in three different doses. However, the American Cancer Society recommends that most people begin with the strongest-dose patch--22 mg. You should remain on this for a period of 4 weeks before lowering yourself to the next dose of 14 mg. Again, you remain on this for another 4 weeks. The final phase is the 7-mg patch.
This treatment works by weaning you slowly off of nicotine and reducing your cravings as measured doses of nicotine is released into your body through your skin throughout the day. A new patch should be placed on a clean area of your body each morning--preferably your upper body--and a new area should be used each day. The FDA recommends using the patch for a period of 3 to 5 months for optimal success (See Reference 1).
Step 2
Chew gum. Not just any gum, though: nicotine gum. This is another form of NRT that may be more effective for you when cravings hit. It is fast-acting, and although it is recommended that you schedule doses, you can take it when you need it. No prescription is required to purchase this treatment, and it comes in two doses: 2 and 4 mg. If you smoke more than a pack a day, the American Cancer Society suggests you start with the 4-mg dose.
To use, chew a piece of gum slowly until a peppery taste enters your mouth. At this time, you place the gum on the side of your mouth where the mucous membranes absorb the nicotine released by the gum. For the following 20 to 30 minutes, you alternate chewing and placing the gum inside your cheek, and then dispense of the gum. You can chew one to two pieces within an hour. However, you should not chew more than 20 pieces a day. Total use is recommended for 1 to 3 months, though 6 months is the maximum.
Step 3
Take a prescription. Zyban, a prescription antidepressant, is also used in the treatment of smoking cessation. This medication does not contain nicotine, but rather reduces the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal by blocking the chemicals in the brain responsible for your cravings. The typical dose is one to two 150-mg tablets a day, and it is most effective when taken 1 to 2 weeks prior to quitting. For this reason, you can continue smoking when you first start your medication.
Step 4
Try Chantix. Although it is a newer prescription medication, the American Cancer Society states that it can more than double your chances of quitting smoking. In the short term, it may even be more effective than Zyban. By interfering with the nicotine receptors in your brain, it reduces your withdrawal symptoms while reducing the pleasurable feelings you receive from smoking a cigarette.
Chantix is generally prescribed for a 12-week period, with the dose being gradually increased over the first 2 weeks. If needed, your doctor may prescribe another 12 weeks to ensure your success.
Step 5
Attend therapy. According to Jeanne Segal, Ph.D., psychologist, behavioral therapy is helpful when breaking the habits and rituals you have developed during your addiction. It helps you learn new coping skills and techniques that will help you break the habit for good. In many cases, behavioral therapy is used in combination with other treatments such as NRT.
