Quit Smoking Drugs Improve Success – But Carry Serious Warnings

Chief among many new year’s resolutions or health goals set for the coming year is a pledge to finally quit smoking once and for all.  Research has proven that it is never too late in life to reap significant health benefits from stopping smoking, some of which begin just hours after quitting, but it’s not an easy task to break free from addiction and habits formed over many years.   Nicotine addiction is powerful and smokers may need help to successfully quit by using nicotine replacement gum, patches or other drugs.

There are a number of medicines available to help adults stop smoking approved by the Food and Drug Administration beyond nicotine replacement therapy.   According to the Mayo Clinic, only 5 per cent of people who try to quit smoking without using drugs are successful while 30 per cent of people who use a medication to quit smoking manage to kick the habit.  But some drugs used to help smokers quit also carry serious risks;  it’s important to talk with your doctor about possible interactions and side effects before taking any medication, prescription or over-the-counter.

Prescription Smoking Cessation Drugs

Bupropion (trade name Zyban) is classified as an antidepressant and is believed to help manage tobacco cravings and withdrawal symptoms by changing brain chemistry.  It is only available with a prescription and has the potential for serious side effects including suicidal thoughts, hostility or depression.  Bupropion carries a black box warning, required by the FDA, because of it’s potential for serious mental health problems.   This is the strictest labeling warning mandated by the FDA.

Varenicline (Chantix) is another prescription drug used to block nicotine receptors in the brain, helping to reduce cravings and make smoking less enjoyable.  Side effects can include nausea, vision trouble, fainting, skin reactions, driving impairment and strange or vivid dreams.   Varenicline also carries a black box warning for serious mental health problems and should be used with caution if you have severe kidney problems.

Source:  Mayo Clinic

If you notice any change in behavior or other side effects from taking smoking cessation medication, consult your doctor immediately.  To learn more about improving your chances of success quitting smoking, visit the Mayo Clinic online by following this link.