After years of smoking, you make the decision to quit the habit. But after a few days, you realize you need help. Habits are difficult to break, and nicotine is a highly addictive substance. The withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking can cause doubt in those with even the strongest conviction and resolve. If you are having difficulty conquering your habit, talk to your doctor about additional resources and potential interventions available to you.
Consider the Reasons
Your reasons to quit smoking are likely numerous. Your doctor has warned you that cigarette smoking adversely affects all of your body's organs and puts you at increased risk for significant health conditions such as heart disease, cancer and stroke. Additionally, you may be putting your loved ones and friends in harm's way through secondhand-smoke exposure, according to National Cancer Institute. You may be tired of looking at yellow teeth, fingers and fingernails. You may hope to begin an exercise program without having to deal with being tired or winded. Smoking can be an expensive habit. Or maybe you're looking for more disposable income for you and your family.
In its "How Can I Quit Smoking?" worksheet, the American Heart Association suggests step one of the process is listing your reasons for quitting. After you have finished your list, refer back to it and reread them every day.
Nicotine-Replacement Products
Shortly after quitting smoking, you will likely experience the common symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. These include depression, sleep disturbances, excessive appetite, anxiety and an intense urge to smoke. According to U.S. Food and Drug Administration, there are nicotine-replacement products available by prescription -- as well as over the counter, available to help you combat these withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine-replacement products are available in transdermal patches, losenges, chewing gum, oral inhaler and nasal spray. Use of these products allows you to taper your nicotine exposure over a period of time until you eventually require none. These medications, whether prescribed or purchased over the counter, are not without risks. If you feel you may benefit from a nicotine-replacement product, discuss the best one for you given your medical history and any current health risks with your doctor.
Other Medications
As of December 2010, there are two FDA-approved, non-nicotine oral medications to help you quit smoking. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, these prescription medications are varenicline tartrate, or Chantix, and Zyban, also known as bupropion. Chantix works in the brain to ease some of the withdrawal symptoms of nicotine, and eventually, it acts by blocking the desired effects of smoking. Zyban is an antidepressant medication that helps those trying to quit smoking abstain from cigarette use. The direct mechanism of action of this medication is unknown.
Both of these medications carry risks in the form of side effects and may be contraindicated for some patients. Talk to your doctor about these pharmacological interventions and whether or not their potential risks outweigh the benefits of quitting smoking. They may or may not be right for you.
Counseling
Because self-help products for smoking cessation are often unsuccessful, the American Heart Association recommends both group and individual counseling to increase your odds of success. During individual counseling, your counselor may give you tips on how to modify your behavior should the urge to smoke overtake you. And in a group counseling environment, the giving and receiving of caring social support of those who are experiencing the same process as you may be beneficial.
References
- National Cancer Institute: Harms of Smoking and Health Benefits of Quitting
- American Cancer Society: Immediate Rewards of Quitting
- American Heart Association: How Can I Quit Smoking?
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Smoking Cessation Products
- American Heart Association: Smoking Cessation Strategies for the 21st Century
