The best ways to give up smoking

Introduction

Have you made a New Year’s resolution to give up smoking? It won’t be easy, but research shows that there are treatments that can really help. See what the studies say about the best way to quit.

So you want to stop smoking?

Giving up smoking is hard because you’ve probably become addicted to nicotine, a chemical in tobacco. Some people are happy to try and give up smoking using just their willpower. But if you think you need some extra help, or you’ve tried to give up on your own before and failed, there are several things out there that can help, including treatments and support programmes.

Many people quit smoking successfully the first time they try. But others need to try a few times before they can call themselves a non-smoker. The main thing is, don’t give up trying to stop. Half of all smokers eventually manage to give up.

Getting professional help

Studies show that getting professional support from a GP, pharmacist or a specially trained counsellor can really help you to give up smoking. A professional can tell you about the benefits of giving up smoking and give you the support you need to do it. It depends what’s available in your area – you might benefit from one-to-one counselling or group therapy, where you’ll be able to swap tips with other people who are trying to quit. Telephone advice and self-help materials such as videos and computer programmes can also help. Ask your GP or pharmacist what is available in your area.

Medicines

There are several medicines that research shows can help you give up smoking. It’s best to use these in combination with professional advice and support (see above).

Nicotine replacement therapy

There are good studies to show that if you smoke 10 or more cigarettes a day, NRT increases the chances that you’ll stop. NRT products supply your body with a small dose of nicotine, so you’re less likely to feel withdrawal effects when you stop smoking. It’s these effects, like feeling depressed or anxious or finding it hard to concentrate, that can make people who are trying to quit reach for a cigarette. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which product is most suitable for you.

Bupropion

Varenicline

Sometimes medicines to help you stop smoking can cause side effects, or react with other medicines you are taking. Also, some medicines are not suitable for everyone. Read the information on the pack carefully, or ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice. Some of these medicines are not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, so be sure ask your pharmacist or GP which is suitable for you.

Things you can do for yourself

There’s some evidence that taking regular exercise may help you stop smoking, although more research is needed. Exercise may help you suffer less from withdrawal symptoms. And exercise has many health benefits, and can also help you avoid putting on weight.

Sometimes, people go to a hypnotherapist when they are trying to stop smoking. Acupuncture is also popular, although there’s good research to show that people who use acupuncture are no more likely to give up smoking than those who don’t.

Stop smoking helplines

These helplines can provide valuable support – both before you quit and once you have stopped smoking.