Smoking is an addiction that is not easy to give up. You need support and guidance. More than that, you need to know the different ways to stop smoking. One of the most effective ways is nicotine replacement therapy, also known as NRT.
This therapy provides low amounts of nicotine to the person through gums, inhalers or patches. Whenever a person feels like a smoke he bites or chews the nicotine gum. This releases a predetermined amount of nicotine into the body, producing an effect similar to a smoke. The withdrawal symptoms gradually cease over the course of therapy. This therapy is highly recommended because there are very few side effects associated with it.
Zyban is another way to stop smoking. The drug acts by releasing endorphins in the body and inducing a feeling of pleasure, similar to the smoking pleasure. However, the drug should only be taken under medical supervision and should be avoided by people who are suffering from cardiac disorders or those who are suffering from diabetes, anorexia or liver disorders. Epileptics and pregnant women too should stay away from the drug. The success rate of using this as a therapeutic aid is very high and the percentage of relapse is low.
An alternative method is the combination therapy. This therapy makes use of both NRT and Zyban as a means to help quit smoking. Counseling sessions are held regularly and form an important component of the therapy. The patient can use NRT for the first few months and then switch to Zyban for the rest of the course. The dose varies for each individual. A success rate of 50% is commonly achieved by using the combination therapy.
Many believe that emotional counseling is the most important way that can help an individual stay off cigarettes permanently. The international Smokenders group carries out seven sessions to help a person grow emotionally stronger. They also advise that when a person feels the need to smoke he must consult a counselor immediately.
A person can also stop smoking all by himself although this is the toughest way and requires a lot of self discipline.
