What Is Smoking Cessation?

Smoking cessation or quitting smoking can be difficult due to physical and psychological dependence; both the habit and nicotine addiction are hard to break. There may be some immediate withdrawal symptoms that are difficult to overcome, such as agitation, anxiety, insomnia, even weight gain and depression. However, withdrawal symptoms are temporary, and permanently quitting yields serious health benefits - even elevated cancer and heart disease risks will decrease over time.

There are many methods, resources and programs available when it comes to quitting. Doctors and counselors can help, and many people are successfully quitting unassisted, either cold turkey, with nicotine gum and patches, or using electronic cigarettes. Some prescription drugs used to help with smoking cessation include atypical antidepressants (Zyban, Buproban) and nicotine agonists (Chantix).