Treatments of Smoking.

How is smoking treated?

Quitting smoking is a very challenging undertaking that often requires several attempts before you can successfully and permanently quit. The best way to quit smoking is through a multifaceted smoking cessation program that includes perseverance, the support of the people close to the smoker, and often nicotine replacement therapy.

Nicotine replacement therapy

Nicotine replacement therapy is one option that helps to minimize the nicotine cravings associated with nicotine withdrawal. Nicotine replacement therapy, when used as directed, is generally considered safe, and is safer than the nicotine in cigarettes. This is because nicotine replacement products contain lower amounts of nicotine than cigarettes and do not expose the smoker to the tar and toxic gasses contained in cigarette smoke.

Nicotine replacement therapies are available in a variety of forms including patches, gums and lozenges, which are available without a prescription. A nicotine replacement nasal spray, an inhaler, and pills are also available but require a prescription.

For optimal results when choosing and using a nicotine replacement therapy product, it is recommended that you see your health care provider prior to treatment. Because nicotine replacement therapies, like all medications, have potential side effects, a licensed health care provider will complete a full evaluation, including a medical history and physical, before recommending which product is best for you. Nicotine replacement therapy should not be used by pregnant or nursing women.

A supportive environment is also important for successful smoking cessation. This is because nicotine replacement therapy only helps smokers to withdraw from the physical symptoms of nicotine addiction, but does not help smokers to change the habitual behavior of smoking. If you are trying to quit smoking, a support group may help you to better cope with the psychological and physiological effects of no longer smoking.