Anti-Aging, Health & Nutrition Facts

By Brad Bahr

There are many different methods to quitting smoking and a host of smoking assistors, like the patch, inhalers, acupuncture or hypnosis, each with their own rates of success. One method that is having fairly good results is the use of an anti-depressant which has the generic name bupropion hydrochloride. It is available in one than one brand name. Originally used only as an anti-depressant it was a surprise for many smokers as well as physicians to learn of its other benefits. This happened when smokers were given it to help with depression realized that it was diminishing their cravings for cigarettes. Smokers should understand that it does not contain any nicotine at all. Instead it works because it affects the levels of certain chemicals that help the body lose its cravings for cigarettes.

People who use the patch, nicotine gum or inhalers must not smoke when they use them as they could overdose on the nicotine. People who try medications that use bupropion hydrochloride are actually encouraged to continue smoking for the first two weeks they are using the medication and then begin the quitting process. This is done by setting a quitting date. When you reach that date you stop smoking but you continue taking the medication for another six to eight weeks. This is a prescription medication and the health care provider will write the prescription for the correct dose and length of time to take the medication. Follow their direction carefully and take only what you are supposed.

The initial and difficult symptoms of withdrawal are controlled by this medication. These include irritability, depression, nervousness, agitation, impatience and often the craving of a cigarette. The success rate of this drug is between fifteen and twenty five percent though some studies have seen results of over fifty percent. But for those who have tried and failed more than once trying a medication that is easy to take, one daily pill swallowed not chewed, can make all the difference between smoking and quitting.

This medication should not be used by everyone. Your doctor should be aware of any medical conditions you might have before prescribing it. It is not safe for those who are epileptic, not anyone who suffers from the eating disorders of bulimia or anorexia since any of these can lead to seizures. It should also not be taken by anyone who regularly drinks alcohol or takes sedatives.

Those with allergies to bupropion should make sure that they do not take this medication as an allergic reaction could be dangerous. Smokers trying to quit should not use this medication if they are already using an anti-depressant. It is also risky for people with diabetes, or those who use illegal drugs and over the counter sleep aids because of the possibility of seizures. The recommended dose for most smokers trying to quit is three hundred milligrams. Those with some medical problems can use a half dose of one hundred and fifty milligrams. But, this is something that will be decided to by the health care provider.

About the author: Brad Bahr is the editor of many health related websites and publications. He has been testing and reviewing nutritional supplements for over 20 years. After trying hundreds of products, he recommends one supplement above all others for renewing health and energy: Learn More

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By Brad Bahr

The first step is the biggest one when it concerns quitting smoking. This decision can only be taken if the smoker has decided that this is what they truly want to do. That means that they are not quitting because of a lover, partner, or family member who complains about their smoking. The smoker must have the motivation to quit. If that is there they can easily set themselves up a four step program to quit. The most important of these steps is the first one; making the decision to stop. It does not matter which reason inspires you. It can be because you are dissatisfied with the smells on your clothes, the burn marks on your upholstery, the health risks, the feeling of being the only one or even that you want to save some extra money and you spend too much on your cigarette habit.

Whatever your motivation, hold on to it and it will help you with the struggle of quitting. Once you have decided on why to stop pick a time to stop and stick to it. This second step is also very important. As the date you have picked approaches do not pull back. Shifting the date because you are not sure you are ready to quit could be the end of your ability to quit. It is better to stop on your chosen date and fail to quit smoking that time then to put if off. Remember that many smokers quit four times before they are successful. This does not mean you will not be successful on your first try. It mean that if you are not you should not became disheartened. You will succeed eventually.

The next step after setting your day to stop is to put together a plan on how you will keep to your goal. It needs not be an elaborate plan just enough steps to help you through the early difficult weeks. You may decide to go to your health care provider to get a prescription for an aid to help you stop. This could include the patch, nicotine inhalers or sprays or the anti-depressant that is having some positive results for those trying to quit smoking. Other alternatives for things to look into include acupuncture, yoga to help you relax, support groups for smokers or taking a short vacation to alleviate the stress from your workplace. Whatever you think will work for you is the plan to follow. There is not one correct approach to quitting smoking. Each individual will have to follow their own plan.

The final step once you have quit is to stay away from smoking for the rest of your life. This may be as difficult as the initial quitting was. There will be temptations along your path to being smoke free. Others you know may still smoke, these could include close friends, co-workers, family or your life partner. You will need their help and understanding to allow you to still be with them but not to restart smoking. Being strong will be your biggest challenge!

About the author: Brad Bahr is the editor of many health related websites and publications. He has been testing and reviewing nutritional supplements for over 20 years. After trying hundreds of products, he recommends one supplement above all others for renewing health and energy: Learn More

Popularity: 29%