In spite of the innumerable techniques available in the market to quit smoking, a large number of smokers fail to quit smoking or relapse after some period of time. It is very important that the smoker chooses the right method to quit smoking. Some methods suit a specific category of people better. Smokers with better self control and determination can take up quit smoking methods like cold turkey or other natural methods. While smokers poor at controlling one’s instincts can take up medication or Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) methods. Combination of techniques also work wonders for some smokers.
Research says that counseling when given with varenicline is very effective and a great
Help to stop smoking . Smoking cessation program can be delivered in three ways using phone, web or both. Among these, phone counseling shows greater treatment advantages for early smoking cessation and it appears to increase medication adherence. Proactive telephone behavioral counseling and Web based services are the most commonly used tools for smoking cessation program. The patients receive a 12 week course of varenicline to quit smoking. They are simultaneously given a behavioral therapy. The behavioral therapy consists of printed guides, a 5 to 10 minute orientation call and access to a toll free phone number for support as and when needed.
Varenicline is a nicotine free prescription medication mainly meant for adults who are 18 and above. It works on the nicotine receptors in the brain, attaches with them and further blocks nicotine from reaching them. The common side effects observed are gastrointestinal disturbances and abnormal dreams. The side effects are the same when the medication is taken without counseling. Counseling decreases the chances of any neuropsychiatric behavior which may be seen due to the intake of medicines.
The medicine, with the supportive treatment philosophy, matter most for long term smoking cessation success.
