More Than Willpower:
Breakthroughs in the Science of Smoking Cessation


Smoking CessationNicotine replacement therapy, behavior modification and now, perhaps, even a nicotine vaccine—quitting smoking has come farther than ever (and has become big business). What can smokers who hope to quit find in their search for a great smoking cessation product? Here we take a look at the different methods available to help you quit smoking for good.

 

Targeting Both Physical and Emotional
If you're trying to quit smoking, odds are you have a friend or two who “quit cold turkey.” Unfortunately, this method does not work for everyone, and the reasons are complex, researchers say. Perhaps the bottom line on needing medical help with quitting smoking is that the addiction is threefold—physical, emotional and behavioral—and that it is an addiction, not just a habit, experts say.

 

This new way of looking at the mechanics of smoking has led to developments in the pharmaceutical industry of medications aimed at making quitting easier than ever before. And such treatments could sidestep the obvious drawback of nicotine replacement therapies such as the nicotine patch or gum: the fact that the patient is still receiving nicotine.

 

However, even as drug companies introduce new or updated versions of smoking cessation drugs, patients' responses are mixed—from claims that the medicine produced a miracle, to studies showing links to erratic or even self-harmful behavior. Therefore, the choice is a serious one for individuals hoping they've finally found the miracle they've been looking for: a stop-smoking aid that really works...without harmful side effects.

 

Prescription Treatments for Smoking Cessation
Two main medications have taken top place in the smoking cessation industry: Zyban and the newer-generation drug, Chantix.

 

If you haven't tried Zyban (bupropion), consider it—but carefully, and under your physician's definitive say-so. Zyban was the first non-nicotine medication specifically approved for use in quitting smoking. Its mechanism is reportedly the lessening of the urge to smoke over time.

 

Be aware that using Zyban is serious stuff. It is an antidepressant (marketed as Wellbutrin when prescribed for this purpose) and therefore affects certain receptors in the brain. Zyban can make some individuals irritable, anxious or, conversely, depressed; however, it may be one of the better-studied medications for smoking cessation at this time.

 

In fact, it was Zyban's side effects, in part, that led to the development of a newer medicine, Chantix (varenicline). Here, too, the idea is to reduce the craving for nicotine until the patient has quit smoking entirely. Ironically, Chantix's side effects could potentially be even worse than Zyban's; according studies released in 2008, suicidal thoughts and acts were linked to well over 200 patients taking the drug.

 

Countering these conclusions is a recent study from the UK, which has stated it found no definitive evidence for the drug increasing potential suicides. And it's beyond debate that anecdotal evidence, as well as medical records, show that the drug can help some patients tremendously.

 

These reports may seem conflicting, but they point to one conclusion. Pharmaceuticals can help—but because they so far primarily involve the brain, they should be attempted with the utmost care, and under consistent physician supervision.

 

And keep in mind that some patients suffer few side effects from these medications—or perhaps none at all. You will need a treatment plan that's personalized to you, your biochemistry and your goals, so see your doctor and ask him or her about drug options for quitting smoking.

 

Toward the Future: An Anti-Smoking Vaccine?
Interestingly, Chantix's bad rap may have led in part to a true breakthrough in quitting smoking: a vaccine that could help consumers quit smoking for good. The proposed vaccine, called NicVax, is currently in Phase 3 of its trials and could offer hope to millions, co-developers GlaxoSmithKline and Nabi Biopharmaceuticals say.

 

Quitting smoking is tough, but help is available. Whatever method you choose, advise your doctor (even if you use an over-the-counter device such as the nicotine patch). Don't go it alone. And be sure you have a support system, such as a trusted family member, a friend or an online community. Along with the latest physical aids, you'll also be addressing the emotional side of smoking cessation...and increasing the odds that this time will be a huge success.

 

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