You Can Quit Smoking

Nicotine: a Powerful Addiction

If you have tried to quit smoking, you know how hard it can be. That is because nicotine is a very addictive drug. For some people, it can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine. Within seconds of taking a puff of smoke, nicotine travels to the brain. It tells the brain to release chemicals that make you want to smoke more.

Quitting is hard. Usually people make 2 to 3 tries, or more, before finally being able to quit. Studies have shown that each time you try to quit, you will be stronger and will have learned more about what helps and what hurts.

Anyone can quit smoking. It does not matter about age, health, or lifestyle. The decision to quit and your success is greatly influenced by how much you want to stop smoking.

Half of all people who have ever smoked have quit.

Purpose of This Article

This article tells about how you can improve your chances of quitting smoking and overcoming your addiction to nicotine. It explains how you can work with health care providers to find the best way for you to quit. It tells about ways to avoid relapses and talks about concerns you may have about quitting, including weight gain. It also lists names and addresses of organizations that can offer help and information.

Help Is All Around You!

Many types of health care providers can help you quit -- your family doctor, dentist, or pediatrician; nurses, psychologists, pharmacists, respiratory and physical therapists; and others.

Programs are given by health care providers who specialize in helping people to stop smoking. Your regular health care provider can help you find a program.

Three Methods for Quitting

Experts say three methods work. You have the best chances of quitting if you use them together:

• Use the nicotine patch or gum
• Get support and encouragement
• Learn how to handle urges to smoke and stress

1. Use the Nicotine Patch or Nicotine Gum

The patch and gum help lessen the urge to smoke. The nicotine in the patch and gum passes through the skin. This reduces the craving for nicotine when you stop smoking. It is important to follow the directions carefully when using the patch or gum. Ask your health care provider for advice or read the information in the package.

While you may still get cravings to smoke, don't smoke while using the patch or gum!

Who should use the nicotine patch or nicotine gum?

Research shows that almost everyone can benefit from using the patch or gum.

If you are pregnant or have heart or blood vessel problems, your health care provider will be especially careful about giving you the patch or gum.