Trying to give up smoking might be one of the most difficult things you have to do. It’s definitely not easy when it comes to dealing with all of the side effects that come with trying to quit. To help you avoid most of these unwanted effects that you may experience you have the option of trying out some quit smoking aids . These usually come in two variations and the one that is the best for you is something that you’ll need to decide. You may even want to think about both options, since they both have their advantages and in the long run you want to stop smoking for good.
Nicotine Gum
Firstly there is nicotine gum. This comes in many different flavors and dosage amounts. This really is suitable for smokers who think it is relaxing to do something using their mouth every time they have the desire to smoke a cigarette. When chewing on the nicotine gum, you will get a small dose of nicotine. This can help you to cut back on your smoking without producing any undesirable effects.
You should recognize you can manage how frequently you may use the nicotine gum. If you’re usually a single pack per day cigarette smoker, and are attempting to cut down to half this amount you might just need to use the gum five times one day and seven times on the next. You’ve got this flexibility due to the fact you can use it only when you absolutely need it. This kind of flexibility is extremely good if you are trying to quit gradually. Furthermore, with the wide range of flavors you are sure to find one that you will enjoy.
Nicotine Patch
Your second option to think about is a conventional nicotine patch. Nicotine patches are usually distributed in doses and they are used in the morning and worn throughout the day. Using this method, you’ll be able to absorb small quantities of nicotine the entire day. This can be good if you are trying to quit cold turkey. You should not smoke cigarettes or use nicotine gum whenever you are wearing a patch. This restriction pushes those that smoke to consider different methods to help suppress any extra urges that appear. Furthermore, since the patch is used each morning, and taken off at nighttime, it could significantly limit the flexibility to gradually reduce nicotine usage.
The nicotine patch will come in a variety of doses which will enable you to gradually cut down, however in general you’ve got much more flexibility to regulate the amount of nicotine within your body using the nicotine gum because every piece consists of only a tiny bit of nicotine. In the event you prefer to just do a single thing that will help you control nicotine addiction you might find that the patch is best. Smokers that have very hectic routines often find them very effective. Many smokers make the simple mistake of choosing the incorrect dose, which could in fact increase the dependence on nicotine, instead of helping to reduce it. Therefore it is important you choose the right dosage for you.
Treating Smoking Addiction with Varenicline
What is varenicline?
Varenicline is known by the trade name of Chantix in the US and Champix in Europe and some other regions where Pfizer markets its products. It was discovered and developed by them. It is a prescription drug used in the treatment of smoking addiction.
It is a nicotinic receptor partial agonist. That means it is different from nicotine antagonists like bupropin and nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) like nicotine patches and nicotine gums. It is different from these in that it not only cuts down cravings for cigarettes but also reduces the pleasure derived from smoking a cigarette or consuming other tobacco products.
Varenicline has proved to be more effective in cessation of smoking as compared to NRTs and antagonists. It has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in the treatment of smoking addiction. It can be used for a period of twelve weeks and can be continued for another twelve if there is improvement.
How it works to treat addiction?
As stated earlier, varenicline is a partial agonist. Varenicline works in two ways. Firstly, it gives the body progressively smaller doses of nicotine which helps the body adjust to the absence of nicotine in the body. Secondly, it prevents nicotine from stimulating the nicotine receptors in the brain , affecting the release of dopamine. Due to this, the individual does not get a nicotine rush on smoking.
There are some common side-effects like nausea that some of those using varenicline experience. Other effects like headaches, abdominal pain and constipation are less commonly seen. Depression and suicidal thoughts are extremely rare but have been seen in some patients using this drug.
Smoking Cessation Aids: Options, Effects & Scientific Backing
| Method | Mechanism | Pros | Limitations | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nicotine Gum | Delivers controlled doses of nicotine via oral absorption when chewed |
– Flexible use – Helps with oral fixation – Available in many flavors |
– May not suit heavy smokers – Risk of overuse – Slower effect than smoking |
American Cancer Society |
| Nicotine Patch | Delivers slow, steady nicotine levels via transdermal absorption |
– Convenient once-daily use – Useful for busy individuals – Discreet and easy |
– Less flexible – Cannot be used with gum/smoking – Improper dose can backfire |
NCBI: Nicotine Patches |
| Varenicline (Chantix/Champix) | Partial agonist at α4β2 nicotinic receptors; reduces cravings and smoking satisfaction |
– Most effective pharmacological aid – Reduces pleasure from smoking – Can be continued up to 24 weeks |
– Prescription only – Side effects: nausea, headaches – Not tested in youth, pregnant, elderly |
FDA Varenicline Info |
| Bupropion (for context) | Atypical antidepressant that reduces nicotine cravings and withdrawal |
– Non-nicotine aid – May help with mood regulation |
– Prescription required – Risk of seizures (rare) – Less effective than varenicline |
NIH Comparative Review |
Caution
Varenicline has not yet been tested on some groups and they should be careful while using this drug. Tests are yet to be conducted on its suitability for certain groups of people like those under 18 years, pregnant and nursing women as well as senior citizens.
4 Comments
I am thinking to get an e-cigga for my father. I heard it is way safer for health and it helps those who want to quit smoking.
e-cigga is a more expensive option and not everyone can afford it. Plus it need to be refill. I think nicotine gum would be best choice. I have no idea how successful it will works tho.
There’s slimming patches, I never heard of of nicotine patches. Where to get them?
Great ideas for a new year resolution!