Stop Smoking Medications

 Did you know that using nicotine replacement therapies or prescription medications with telephone counselling can double your chances of quitting?

For more detailed information on medications, download this
Stop Smoking Medications Guide.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Many smokers need assistance to quit smoking. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) works to reduce withdrawal symptoms when you quit smoking by substituting for the nicotine you would get through smoking. NRT products are non-prescription medications that contain nicotine.  NRT products include nicotine patch, gum, lozenge, and inhaler. They help reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings by reducing the amount of nicotine gradually, which you to handle withdrawal symptoms more easily. NRT is most effective when it is combined with counselling.

Prescription Medications

Bupropion SR (Zyban®, Wellbutrin®) and Varenicline (Champix®) are medications that do not contain nicotine but work on the brain to manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings.These medications are only available by prescription, and reduce the urge to smoke for some people. Stop smoking medications are clinically proven to help smokers quit, but they are not for everyone. Speak to your physician, pharmacist or AlbertaQuits Cessation Counsellor about what options would work for you.

Prescription medications should be started about a week before your quit date to be most effective.

You can also check out the Medication Guide at AlbertaQuits Online.