Prescription smoking cessation aids can be a powerful asset to someone who is attempting to quit smoking. Nicotine nasal sprays, nicotine inhalers and non-nicotine medications like Zyban and Chantix are just some of the prescription products that may help you quit smoking for good. If you have tried unsuccessfully to quit cold turkey or by using over-the-counter products, you may find using prescription products like these will allow you to fight your addiction more effectively.
Step 1
Prepare for a doctor appointment. Do some research on the different options available to you. Consider if you feel more comfortable using nicotine replacement products like nasal sprays or inhalers or if prescription medications like Zyban or Chantix are more your thing. Write down any questions or issues you would like to discuss with your doctor at the appointment. Some examples of things to discuss include the advantages, disadvantages, possible side effects and risks associated with each prescription option.
Step 2
Talk to your doctor. Although you may already have a preference as to which medication you wish to take, be open to the other possibilities that your doctor may suggest. Give a thorough medical history to your doctor, as certain medical conditions may eliminate you from being able to use certain products. Discuss all the questions on your list until you feel satisfied with your knowledge on the subject and are completely comfortable with the decision being made.
Step 3
Fill your prescription. Although some insurances may cover some smoking cessation prescription products, others may not. Know how much you will have to pay for the item before filling your prescription.
Step 4
Begin using the prescription product as directed on the package or by your doctor. The specifics of this will vary depending upon the type of product you are using, so be sure to call your doctor if you have any specific questions about how to use your product.
Step 5
Surround yourself with a good support system. Contrary to what many people may believe, the prescription product itself may not be enough to make quitting easy. You will still crave cigarettes at times, so make sure to surround yourself with positive people who will help you with the quitting process. Calling smoking cessation hotlines, joining support groups or talking to an addiction counselor are other things that may help.
Step 6
Don't quit quitting. Mistakes happen. If you slip up and end up having a cigarette, this is not a reason to give up on quitting completely. Forgive yourself for making the mistake and then focus your attention on getting back on track.
Tips and Warnings
- The most important thing to successfully quit smoking is to make the commitment each and every day not to have a cigarette. Although your prescription will be a powerful ally in helping you to fight your smoking addiction, you need to remain determined and steadfast in your decision to quit smoking for good.
- On July 1, 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) required the prescription medications Chantix and Zyban to come with a warning label explaining the serious mental health event risks that may occur while taking the products. Depression, behavior changes, hostility or suicidal thoughts or behavior are all potential side effects of these medications. Talk to your doctor about this issue before deciding if either medication is right for you.
