For those who want to quit smoking today, there’s help available. Smoking cessation comes in many forms and methods, and each one has corresponding side effects and advantages. Below are the most popular smoking cessation methods in America. Read on and know more about your options.
1. Prescription Medications
There are several smoking cessation drugs that have been clinically proven to be effective. Two of the most popular are Chantix and Zyban. Most of these drugs work by blocking the nicotine receptors in the brain, reducing the effects of nicotine. Just like other medications, they have side effects too. However, such side effects may be prevented or minimized by following doctor’s advice and undergoing pre-screening before taking the drug.
2. Nicotine replacement
This method comes in various forms including gums, patches, pills, lozenges, and sprays. They work by giving your body a dose of nicotine that you normally get from smoking. As a result, you crave less for tobacco. However, studies show that nicotine replacement is not ideal for long-term use. It also comes with undesirable side effects that range from physical to physiological effects.
3. Hypnosis
Many people are using hypnosis to quit smoking. Experts have different opinions about it. As of now, there’s little scientific evidence that hypnosis works as a smoking cessation treatment although it has been proven effective in treating several mental and behavioral problems such as phobia and anxiety. Some experts say that hypnosis help in managing craving and withdrawal symptoms. However, they warn people to be cautious about finding a therapist. Self-hypnosis is not advisable unless otherwise the patient has been properly instructed and guided by the hypnotherapist.
4. Acupuncture
This alternative therapy has been practiced for over 2,000 years. It is known as an effective method to achieve relaxation and restore the balance in the body. Scientific studies have shown that acupuncture has vast health benefits. However, no study supports its efficiency in helping people quit smoking. A review on 33 studies regarding acupuncture as a smoking cessation aid found that there is not enough evidence that the therapy works. However, you can get acupuncture while undergoing smoking cessation treatment. The therapy will help reduce the stress and anxiety that often come along with the withdrawal symptoms.
5. Herbs, supplements and substitutes
Herbs have not been proven to be effective in helping people quit smoking. Most of the claims that they work are mere folklores. Tobacco substitutes neither work. The electronic cigars have never been proved to safe, even though manufacturers claim that they are less harmful than traditional tobacco. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, these products contain carcinogenic substances which are highly toxic, such as diethylene glycol.
Before you quit smoking today, take some time to research and read everything you can about the cessation methods you’re considering. The web will give you lots of information but you can also consult books, magazines, and of course, the health experts. With enough knowledge, you can certainly find the best way to quit smoking for good.
