Everyone would agree that quitting smoking is not easy, but it’s different when it comes to our view on the effectiveness of different smoking cessation treatments. And because of this diversity, myths and misconceptions start to find their way to the mainstream, even to the point that these myths become so convincing that they appear to be true. Below are 8 common quit smoking myths, and the truth behind each myth.
Myth #1: Quit smoking treatments really don’t help smokers quit.
Fact: Studies suggest that NRTs (nicotine replacement therapies) and smoking cessation drugs (i.e Champix) can double and, in some cases, even triple the chance of the smoker to successfully quit.
Quit smoking treatments are best used as part of a smoking cessation program which may include:
- the quit smoking date
- a solid plan how to deal with the symptoms of quitting
- an outside help or professional support
Myth #2: Nicotine replacement therapies cause cancer.
Fact: Nicotine by itself does not cause cancer. Other chemicals found in cigarettes, like carbon monoxide and tar, cause the most damage. NRTs deliver nicotine into the body minus the dangerous compounds found in cigarette smoke.
Myth #3: Using two or more nicotine replacement products is dangerous.
Fact: Using two or more NRTs actually increases your chance of quitting. One popular combination therapy is using nicotine patches to cut the everyday craving, and to use gum, nasal spray, lozenges, mouth spray, or inhalator for sudden cravings.
Myth #4: Champix causes depression.
Fact: Champix has been alleged to cause depression and even suicidal tendencies among users. However, there is no single solid study or report to support these claims. It’s still unclear if the side effects were due to the process of quitting itself or to the medicine, but for most users Chantix is perfectly safe.
But make sure to consult your doctor for any concern before taking the product.
Myth #5: NRTs are expensive.
Facts: NRTs are either free, or on prescription at an affordable cost. It is even cheaper, compared to the amount you spend for cigarettes.
Myth #6: Quit smoking treatments offer cure.
Fact: Quit smoking treatments alone will not cure your nicotine addiction. You still have to exert a lot of effort to be able to quit successfully and stay quit.
Myth #7: Quit smoking treatments are dangerous for pregnant women.
Fact: Smoking is very much dangerous to you and your baby. NRTs like patches, inhaler, gum, lozenges, etc., are very much helpful in cutting the nicotine cravings among pregnant women. However, prescription drugs, like Chantix, are not recommended for soon-to-be-moms. Talk to your physician before using any smoking cessation aids.
Myth #8: NRTs are addictive.
Fact: Majority of NRT users don’t become addicted to NRTs. In fact, some smokers even failed to use them long enough, and NRTs deliver nicotine to your body in a very different way as cigarettes. Nicotine is released in your body in a much slower pace that very little amount of it reaches your brain.
