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The Best Method to Quit Smoking

Smokers interested in quitting face an array of choices. Casual smokers who indulge after a meal or while socializing are likely to find it less trouble to stop than a pack-a-day smoker. Some may do best quitting abruptly; others may benefit from weaning and smoke-replacement products. Often it takes trial and error to figure out which method is best for you.

  1. Why It's Addictive

    • Arguably the most difficult habit to break, smoking is said to be so highly addictive because of nicotine, a chemical that alters brain functioning. It is known as a "reinforcing" drug, and smokers want it despite its damaging effects. Smoking makes the heart beat faster, constrictsf the veins and increases blood pressure. Long-term effects can include anything from teeth staining, premature aging, gum disease and infertility to serious conditions like cancer, heart disease, stroke, asthma and a weakened immune system.

    Quitting Methods

    • The "cold turkey" method, in which a smoker quits immediately, is the simplest, but it also has the highest incidence of relapses. If cold turkey is your choice, you'll need lots of reinforcement -- such as a strong support system or something to occupy the place of smoking, like chewing gum or exercise.

      To wean yourself, gradually cut down on the number of cigarettes you smoke per day. Relapsing is also easy with this method.

      Several companies manufacture nicotine gum products to help smokers quit. Brand names include Nicorette, Nicoderm and Commit. These gums work by releasing a small amount of nicotine into your system, which eases cravings and withdrawal symptoms. These aids have been reported to boost the success rate among quitters by as much as 30 percent, and to help combat the weight gain that smokes fear when they quit.

      Also available as a quitting aid in the nicotine pathc, which resembles a giant Band-Aid and works similarly to nicotine gum products by also administering small amounts of the drug to assist with cravings and the weaning process. Depending on the strength of nicotine needed, the patch is worn on the body between 12 and 24 hours a day; one is placed on a different area of the skin each time. This technique has been said to be very effective at managing withdrawal symptoms. But, although you're no longer exposing your lungs to tar and smoke, you're still putting nicotine in your body. So if it proves unsuccessful, it's best to move on to another method sooner rather than later.

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