Medications To Help You Quit The Tobacco Habit For Good
| 2 min read
Did you know more than two-thirds of tobacco users want to quit completely, they just think they can’t? If you’re a tobacco user, you may know this feeling. For those of you looking to quit, or wanting to help a loved one quit, we’re here to help.
When it comes to nicotine, you probably know it’s a medical problem that can become an addiction. But you may not be aware there are medications that can help you fight the cravings and quit smoking once and for all. Have you been given information about medications to help you quit? If not, let’s close this gap so you can say yes.
When considering this tactic as part of your quitting plan, you have options, including over-the-counter (nicotine replacement therapy) and prescription medications. Discuss both options with your doctor to see which is right for you. Here are a few common medications that successful quitters have used:
On Your Own (Over-the-counter medications) Help of your Doctor (Prescription medications) Nicotine patches Zyban Nicotine gum Chantix Nicotine lozenges Nicotrol inhaler or nasal spray
Nicotine replacement therapy helps curb tobacco use. It lowers cravings and the urge to use by delivering nicotine without the harmful chemicals and toxins found in tobacco products. For more information, check out our Quit Guide.
So why should you give tobacco cessation medication serious consideration? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services found that less than 15 percent of people who quit can successfully do so without medication. If you want to turn to other resources to assist you in your journey to quitting, we have a few:
- Talk to your doctor. He or she can provide more quitting strategies and help determine what medication is right for you.
- Read our Quit Guide.
- Watch our video featuring a doctor’s advice on smoking.
- Call the Michigan Tobacco Quit Line at 1-800-784-8669.
*Please note, for Blue Care Network of Michigan members: Medications, including over-the-counter drugs, are covered at no out-of-pocket costs with a prescription. Quantity limits do apply and select products are subject to plan requirements.
Photo credit: Jamie
