Why Quit Smoking?

If you find it hard to quit smoking, you are not alone. Smoking is highly addictive, and it’s not an easy habit to break. But don’t lose hope, if you can’t quit the first time around. There are drugs and special programs that can help you quit smoking.

One way that many use to help them in their goal to quit smoking is to ask their doctor about a quit smoking prescription. With many options available, finding one that’s right for you is key and that’s where your doctor comes in. Your doctor knows just how hard it is to quit smoking, and he knows which type of prescription would be best for you.

Nicotine Replacement
The first line of offense that comes to mind when looking into a quit smoking prescription is generally nicotine replacement therapies. These work on a stagger plan: you begin with a dose comparable to what you’re smoking, and step down a little as time goes on until you need less and less. Patches, gums, inhalers and nasal sprays are options that slowly reduce the physical cravings for nicotine. Many of these quit smoking drugs are no longer require a prescription and can be bought over the counter.

Smoking cessation pills
Many doctors prescribe smoking cessation pills to help their patients quit smoking. Ask your doctor about the benefits, risks, and potential side effects of these quit smoking prescriptions. Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and Zyban are anitdepressants that reduce cravings. Often a smoker starts taking these drugs a week prior to their quit date. Usually these drugs are taken for about 12 weeks. When they are used in combination with the patch, 50 percent of people who used this quit smoking method were successful.

A newer option is varenicline or Chantix. This FDA approved medication reduces the pleasurable feelings of smoking, and decreases the withdrawal symptoms. It is also generally advised over a twelve week period, but may be continued for twelve weeks after quitting to prevent relapse.

Only your doctor can tell you if these quit smoking prescriptions are right for you. Of course, your doctor needs to know your personal health history, both mental and physical, before prescribing any medication. Be sure to contact your physician if you experience any of the following symptoms: excessive anxiety, nervousness, tension, depressed mood, unusual behaviors and thinking about or attempting suicide.

Whatever method you choose in quitting smoking, remember, there is hope and you can do it. Maintaining a can-do attitude and maintaining a great support system is key to any quit smoking plan. Keeping in mind all the reasons for quitting will increase chances of quitting cigarettes for good.