One of the most effective ways to improve your overall health is to quit smoking cigarettes. Research conclusively revealed that cigarette smoke is harmful and dangerous to not only the smoker, but those around them as well. According to the American Lung Association, the use of tobacco and exposure to second-hand smoke are responsible for nearly 500,000 deaths each year in the United States. If you are ready to begin the process of quitting, now is a great time to start.
To help, below is a list of the most effective methods to help you quit smoking:
1. Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs)
When beginning your smoking cessation journey, it’s important to remember that you are not at the mercy of your cravings. Nicotine is an addictive chemical found in the tobacco plant and is known to produce the extremely harmful effects of tobacco dependency. Short-acting nicotine replacement therapies, including skin patches, chewing gum, and lozenges, as well as prescription nasal spray and prescription inhalers, can all help with overcoming intense cigarette cravings. NRTs are devised to wean the body off tobacco and supplies people with a controlled dose of nicotine, all the while sparing the user from exposure to the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. Before using any NRT products, it is recommended to talk with your doctor to discuss which form and dosage would work for you.
2. Non-nicotine medications
If using nicotine to quit smoking doesn’t strike you, there’s prescription medications that can help. Bupropion is an antidepressant medication that is also used to help people stop smoking by curtailing cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is not an antidepressant, but it is also used to treat nicotine addiction by reducing cravings and decreasing the pleasurable effects of tobacco products.
3. Behavioral support
A lot of people who have quit smoking agree that the best method to quit smoking is to combine methods. By combining medication, such as an NRT or non-nicotine medications, with behavioral support can increase the chances of successfully quitting smoking. This type of support can include written information, group therapy, or individual therapy, either in person, online, or by phone. If the thought of therapy frightens you, we recommend starting with a support service, like a quit smoking helpline. A helpline can provide you with a quit coach who can answer questions, help develop a personal quit plan, or give you a reference to programs and services in your area.