Double Your Chances Of Quitting Smoking

Many women who quit smoking are surprised by how good they feel! They feel in charge - they smell good - they feel more relaxed!
Jan 5, 2012 11:40 AM ET
Campaign: Choose You

(3BL Media / theCSRfeed) January 5, 2012 - More than 70% of U.S. smokers say they want to quit, but only between 4% and 7% succeed if they try it without help. Quitting smoking can be tough, but here are some ways you can double your chances of quitting and staying quit. To boost your odds of quitting smoking for good, consider these options.

Think about using medicines to help you quitResearch has shown that using a quit-smoking medicine can double your chances of success. These drugs include bupropion (Wellbutrin®, Zyban®), varenicline (Chantix®), and nicotine replacement in the form of a patch, gum, nasal spray, inhaler, or lozenge.

  • Bupropion is a prescription drug that helps reduce cravings. It has no nicotine.

  • Varenicline is a prescription drug that helps lessen nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It also has no nicotine. It lowers the feelings of pleasure people get from smoking.

  • Nicotine replacement products such as the patch, gum, lozenge, inhaler, or nasal spray do have nicotine. They can help reduce unpleasant physical withdrawal symptoms. This gives you the chance to focus on changing your smoking habit and routines.

Depending on your smoking habits and other attempts to quit, your doctor may recommend using one or more of these medicines. Each product has its own pros and cons, and people may find that one works better for them than another. Talk to your doctor or health care provider about setting up a plan that will work for you.

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