What is the easiest way to quit smoking?

Smoking is responsible for 87 percent of lung cancers, according to Medline Plus. Quitting reduces the risk of health issues such as heart disease, stroke and lung disease. But giving up cigarettes isn't easy. According to the American Cancer Society, nicotine is as addictive as cocaine or heroin. When quitting, smokers deal with physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, but medications and behavioral therapy are available to make it easier.

Nicotine Replacement Medications

According to the Mayo Clinic, nicotine replacement medications provide nicotine without the harmful chemicals that cause cancer. The nicotine patch provides nicotine through the skin.

Nicotine gum is another option for replacing nicotine. The gum is available in 2 mg to 4 mg doses and can be used up to 20 times a day, as needed. This gum helps curb nicotine cravings, according to the Mayo Clinic. Nicotine lozenges can also be used to curb cravings (also available in 2 mg to 4 mg doses). These products are available over-the-counter.

Medications That Don't Contain Nicotine

Antidepressants such as Wellbutrin increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can help people quit smoking. Nicotine also increases dopamine levels, which is a reason why quitting is difficult.

Medications such as Chantix target the brain's nicotine receptors, according to the Mayo Clinic. This medication decreases withdrawal symptoms.

Behavioral Therapy

When combined with medications, behavioral therapy can make giving up smoking easier. Medications focus on handling withdrawal symptoms and behavioral therapies help patients learn skills to stay away from smoking in the future.

Hospitals and health care providers usually offer treatment programs for nicotine dependence. There are also phone counselors, such as the American Cancer Society's quite smoking program, who can be reached at (800) 227-2345.

Tips for Avoiding Relapse

Withdrawal symptoms are the most intense during the first few weeks after quitting, according to the Mayo Clinic. During this time, exercise regularly. Exercise naturally increases dopamine levels in the brain.

Also, make a list of smoking triggers and avoid these situations. For example, if you're tempted to smoke while drinking alcohol, consider staying away from these situations for a while.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Nicotine Dependence

Medline Plus: Smoking

American Cancer Society: Guide to Quitting Smoking