Keys to quitting - 4. Get Medication and Use It Correctly

Medications can help you stop smoking and lessen the urge to smoke.

* The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved five medications to help you quit smoking:
1. Bupropion SR—Available by prescription.
2. Nicotine gum—Available over-the-counter.
3. Nicotine inhaler—Available by prescription.
4. Nicotine nasal spray—Available by prescription.
5. Nicotine patch—Available by prescription and over-the-counter.
* Ask your health care provider for advice and carefully read the information on the package.
* All of these medications will more or less double your chances of quitting and quitting for good.
* Everyone who is trying to quit may benefit from using a medication. If you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, nursing, under age 18, smoking fewer than 10 cigarettes per day, or have a medical condition, talk to your doctor or other health care provider before taking medications.

Internet Citation:
You Can Quit Smoking. Consumer Guide, June 2000. U.S. Public Health Service. www.surgeongeneral.gov/tobacco/quits.htm