Quitting smoking
Published April 16, 2024 | 
( 1996 )
-I have smoked cigarettes for 15 years. After many failed attempts at quitting, including one using “the patch,” I am at a loss. What kinds of quitting approaches seem to have the greatest success?-
Smoking cessation is never easy, but a history of failed attempts does not mean there is no hope. It is the minority who succeed in quitting after an initial attempt. Use of a nicotine patch that delivers a dose of nicotine comparable to that delivered while smoking has proven helpful; one dose may not work for everyone. In addition, success rates are better when use of nicotine replacement (patch, gum, or nasal spray) is combined with regular counseling sessions. Remember, the many benefits of not smoking make continued attempts to quit worth the trouble and expense