Five Ways to Quit Smoking

Five Ways to Quit Smoking
 
Direct Quitting Method

This method involves choosing a specific day to completely stop smoking from that day forward. Research shows that this method has the highest success rate and is the preferred method for quitting smoking. It is important to recognize that this method may lead to strong withdrawal symptoms for the quitter, such as low mood, insomnia, irritability, and anxiety, and the success rate may be lower compared to combining it with other quitting methods.

Gradual Reduction Method

This involves reducing the daily smoking amount until completely quitting. On the last day of reduction, generally recommended to be the 7th day, one can choose to quit directly and completely stop smoking.

Creating a quitting plan can help the quitter better manage their quitting process. For example, choose a day on the calendar to start quitting and mark daily reduction standards, strictly following the plan, and highlighting each day without smoking to help reduce the chances of relapse.

Delay Method

This involves delaying the start time of smoking each day until completely quitting. For example, push back the first cigarette of the day by 2 hours. It is important to note that with this method, one must choose a day to completely stop smoking, generally also recommended to be on the 7th day. Like the gradual reduction method, the delay method can also be assisted by creating a plan and marking it on the calendar.

Nicotine Replacement

This method can be used alongside behavioral therapy, utilizing nicotine replacement products such as nicotine patches, gum, nasal sprays, etc. The dosage of each nicotine replacement is gradually reduced until it is no longer needed. Research has found that nicotine replacement therapy has a success rate four times higher than quitting on one's own; it not only alleviates withdrawal symptoms but also reduces relapse rates and increases the success rate of quitting.

Taking Bupropion Hydrochloride

Bupropion hydrochloride is one of the prescription medications approved for smoking cessation in our country. This medication does not contain nicotine but can alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings for smoking. Bupropion hydrochloride (sustained-release tablets) is the first non-nicotine smoking cessation medication that can effectively help smokers quit. However, this medication needs to be started while the person is still smoking, as it takes about a week to reach stable blood concentration and exert its effects.