Someone who has been struggling to quit smoking and cannot seem to break the habit can get help from a Family Practice Doctor in Andover Kansas. Several effective strategies can allow this individual to finally quit for good and know what a healthy choice this is. The sooner the person stops smoking, the better, as much of the damage that has been caused by tobacco can be reversed.
Nicotine Patch
A Family Practice Doctor in Andover Kansas can provide a prescription for a nicotine patch if the patient is having the most trouble getting through the initial withdrawal symptoms. The patch is available over-the-counter without a prescription, but the patient may find the prescription more affordable if health insurance pays for smoking cessation products. In addition, it’s beneficial to have a doctor’s supervision when using the patch. The doctor can guide the patient through any side effects that develop and answer questions about general usage. Lower dosages of nicotine are provided throughout the treatment until the patient has been completely weaned off the substance.
Nicotine Gum
Nicotine gum is another smoking cessation device that can be bought over the counter or with a doctor’s prescription. As with the patch, a physician’s supervision is advantageous, especially because some individuals find themselves becoming addicted to the gum. A doctor’s guidance can prevent this from occurring.
Nicotine Inhaler
This device is only available with a prescription. Some smokers find it to be a more effective solution than the patch or the gum, particularly because they can hold it like a cigarette. For many people, the activity of smoking is pleasant in itself, in addition to the nicotine effects. A person interested in this product may Contact Wichita Family Medicine Specialists LLC for an appointment to discuss smoking cessation and obtain a prescription.
Prescription Drugs
Family doctors also can prescribe drugs that are primarily used for other purposes but have been shown to be effective for smoking cessation. An example is the antidepressant bupropion. The medication eases the anxiety many people feel when they stop smoking. Patients begin taking it about two weeks before they have their final cigarette.
