In this Article

• What problems are caused by smoking?
• What is addictive disease and why is smoking considered addictive?
• What are the signs of cigarette addiction?
• Why should someone quit smoking?
• What are the steps in quitting?
• Getting ready to quit smoking
• On the day you quit smoking
• Staying quit
• What methods can help a person quit smoking?
• Behavioral modification and self-help literature to quit smoking
• Nicotine replacement therapy to quit smoking
• What prescription products are available for smoking cessation?
• How are nicotine-containing products used safely?
• What is in the future for smoking?
• Smoking and Quitting Smoking At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Smoking And How To Quit Smoking - Effective Treatments
• Smoking and Quitting Smoking Glossary
• Smoking and Quitting Smoking Index

On the day you quit smoking

• Get rid of all your cigarettes. Put away your ashtrays.
  
  
• Change your morning routine. When you eat breakfast, don't sit in the same place at the kitchen table. Stay busy.
  
  
• When you get the urge to smoke, do something else instead.
  
  
• Carry other things to put in your mouth, such as gum, hard candy, or a toothpick.
  
  
• Reward yourself at the end of the day for not smoking. See a movie or go out and enjoy your favorite meal.

Staying quit

• The expected consequences of quitting are irritability, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite, and of course, urges to smoke. So, if you feel more short-tempered or distracted or sleepier than usual, don't worry because these feelings will pass.
  
  
• Try to exercise. For example, go for a walk, ride a bike, if you have access to a pool swim, take a yoga or Pilates class.
  
  
• Consider the positive things about quitting. For example, think about how much you like yourself as a non-smoker, the health benefits for you and your family, and the example you set for others around you. A positive attitude will help you through the tough times.
  
  
• When you feel tense, try to keep busy and think about ways to ease the tenseness. Tell yourself that smoking won't make it any better, and go do something else.
  
  
• Eat regular meals because feeling hungry is sometimes mistaken for the desire to smoke.
  
  
• Start putting the the money you save by not buying cigarettes in a "money jar."
  
  
• Let others know that you have quit smoking. You will find that most people will support you. Many of your smoking friends may want to know how you quit. It's good to talk to others about your quitting. In fact, people who stay off smoking for at least one year often have had very strong support from a companion or co-worker.
  
  
• If you slip-up and smoke, don't be discouraged. Many former smokers have tried to quit several times before they finally succeed.

Smoking And How To Quit Smoking - Effective Treatments

The MedicineNet physician editors ask:

What treatments have been effective to assist in quitting smoking.

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