Stop Smoking

Smoking cessation can be challenging, but there are ways to make the process easier. Stop smoking aids, such as Nicorette, help replace nicotine after you quit, easing some withdrawal symptoms and cravings. The controlled dosage of these products helps make it easier for you to reduce your intake gradually, allowing a more comfortable transition away from cigarettes. 

If you're struggling to quit smoking, formulating a structured plan may help. Consider speaking to a doctor or therapist to assist with any barriers to quitting, such as mental health issues. They can also guide you to use stop smoking products more effectively. 

When you quit smoking, positive effects begin to occur quickly as your blood pressure and heart rate may drop within the first few hours after your last cigarette. Carbon monoxide levels also fall quickly, and your body transports oxygen more effectively after 8 hours. Some other effects of stopping smoking include: 

• Improved taste and smell 

• Reduced risk of heart attacks and strokes 

• Better lung capacity and ability to breathe clearly 

• Healthier circulation 

During this time, you'll also likely experience withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, headaches and irritability. While these symptoms may be uncomfortable, you can alleviate them with nicotine gum to make it easier to cope. Patches such as Nicoderm deliver a more consistent level of nicotine throughout the day and might be a better option if you're a heavy smoker or struggling with constant symptoms. 

Finding the right smoking cessation method for you may take some time but will offer great rewards as it works to ease your cravings for a cigarette. Each stop-smoking aid works effectively in its own way, with nicotine gum offering different doses of nicotine to soothe your desire for a smoke while distracting you with a chewing action. Lozenges gently release the nicotine your brain and body craves in a passive manner. Your nicotine patches work to deliver time-released nicotine in a manner that allows you to receive the addictive substance without having to think about it. Stronger steps to stop smoking may involve a prescription medication such as chantix, varenicline, or zyban.

In order for stop smoking aids such as nicotine replacement therapies to be available at CVS, they must first be FDA approved, ensuring your smoking cessation aid is tested, trusted, and safe. Herbs, supplements, and other non-traditional stop smoking aids are considered complementary therapies or homeopathic remedies and are utilized at your own discretion. Any method you take to stop smoking should be discussed with your healthcare provider to aid in your efforts at effectively ending your addiction.

Stop smoking aids come in many forms, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. The most common and effective form of smoking cessation aid comes in the form of nicotine replacement therapies. These therapies can be found at CVS in the form of gum, lozenges, and patches. You can also turn to nicotine nasal sprays, inhalers, or prescription medications.

How To Stop Coughing After Quitting Smoking 

Many smokers cough due to irritation from cigarette smoke, and this is likely to get better quickly after quitting. Cough medicine can help in the first few days by reducing your urge to cough and making it easier to expel mucus. However, if you smoked heavily or over a longer period, your coughing may be due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or bronchitis. See your doctor if your cough persists after quitting or doesn't respond to over-the-counter cough suppressants. 

If you're planning to become pregnant, it's wise to stop smoking immediately rather than wait until a pregnancy test shows positive. Quitting earlier may help improve fertility after 3 months, and your doctor can also recommend prenatal supplements that help give your baby the best start.