Choosing the Right Quit Smoking Aid

Maybe you or your friends have asked it several times already – “What is the best method to quit smoking?”

Smoking and HealthWhile there can be varying answers to this question, one thing is sure – it all depends on YOU and the choice you’ll be making on the succeeding days once you decide to quit smoking. You need to exert effort and make your quit journey a success. Among the most effective smoking cessation programs would take advantage of three important tools (1) is the quit smoking medication, (2) the coping schemes, and (3) the support group.

FDA-approved smoking cessation medications can double your chances of quitting. These include NRTs such as nicotine patches, gums, lozenges, sprays, and inhalers; and Varenicline (Chantix). However like most, if not all, medications, these smoking cessation treatments have both their respective benefits and side effects. Also, these cessation aids are not all accessible over-the-counter. Some would require your physician’s prescription. Regardless whether it is an over-the-counter med or not, it’s still best if you inform your doctor that you’re planning to quit smoking. Your doctor is of better standing to help you determine and device an effective quit plan that fits you.

Choosing the right smoking cessation technique requires taking into account several factors, including:

  • The Cost. Some smoking cessation aids are quite expensive compared to others. How much is your budget? This must not discourage you though. It may be costly, but in the long run quitting is far less expensive vis-à-vis smoking and its health risks.
  • Convenience. Smoking cessation aids come in different forms. There are pills, patches, gums, and lozenges. The doses and frequency of use also varies. Which method fits your lifestyle well? For instance, if you often forget taking your meds, using Chantix and other prescription drugs may not be very advisable for you.
  • Your Medical History. This is a very important factor when choosing the best cessation aid for you. Some health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, etc., may not allow the use of certain smoking cessation products. It is best that you consult your doctor.
  • Level of Nicotine Addiction. How often do you light up? How many cigarettes do you smoke a day? If you smoke more frequently, you may prefer using a smoking cessation aid that offers continual support like nicotine patches, as against a treatment that is used “as needed” like nicotine gums or lozenges.
  • Your Interest. Which method or smoking cessation aid appeals to you the most? You can read and compare information before finally making your choice.

At the end of the day, there is really no perfect method to quit smoking. But you can always device a perfect method for you. You can even combine one or two cessation techniques to increase your chance of quitting. However, just a fervent reminder, always seek the advice of your doctor before using any smoking cessation aids as part of your quitting program to avoid possible side effects or harm to your health.

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