Kicking the Nicotine Habit

Smoking tobacco is a highly addictive habit. This is due to the nicotine content in cigarettes, which triggers a release of chemicals in the brain that results in a pleasant and relaxing feeling for the smoker. However, smoking tobacco is also well known for its negative effects on the body, notably related to causing cancer, lung diseases, heart attacks, and strokes. Tobacco smoke is also harmful to those who do not smoke but are constantly exposed (secondhand-smoke). Counseling and attending support groups have been helpful for some smokers. Medications are also available to assist with smoking cessation.

Products that aid with smoking cessation can either contain nicotine or be nicotine-free. Nicotine products provide the user with certain amounts of nicotine that decrease in a stepwise manner over time to help wean the person off the chemical. Some over-the-counter nicotine products include chewing gum or lozenges (Nicorette) and patches (Nicoderm CQ, Habitrol). Nicotine oral inhalers and nasal sprays (Nicotrol) are available as prescriptions. Nicotine-free smoking cessation aids are prescription drugs and include varenicline (Chantix) and bupropion (Zyban). These drugs interfere with processes in the brain that are linked to nicotine cravings.



   Eric Johnson, Pharmacist   
Brought to you by Cheek & Scott Drugs, Inc.
A Community Pharmacy serving North Central Florida.

Live Oak:
386-362-2591
1520 Ohio Ave South; Live Oak, FL 32064

Lake City:
386-754-5377
161 Stonegate Ter; Suite 105; Lake City, FL 32024

Online:
www.CheekAndScott.com


Disclaimer