Smoking continues to be a public health concern as it can be linked to serious medical conditions like strokes, cardiovascular diseases, lung diseases, and various types of cancer. In 2023, it is estimated that 16 million Americans live with a tobacco-related disease. Despite the obvious dangers, many Americans still struggle with quitting due to nicotine dependence, withdrawal symptoms, risks of relapse, and other factors.
Therefore, there needs to be a greater emphasis on evidence-based strategies that not only encourage smokers to attempt quitting, but also increase quit-success rates. It is in this light that the article outlines the most effective pharmacological and behavioral interventions for smoking.
Bupropion
While originally marketed as an antidepressant, bupropion has been included in the range of quit medications after it was found that people who used it to treat their depression also lost interest in smoking.
There is still research being done on the exact mechanism of bupropion as a quit aid, although it is hypothesized that it weakly inhibits the reuptake of dopamine and norepinephrine. Since both neurotransmitters are responsible for the brain’s stress regulation and reward system, prolonging their duration leads to both anti-craving and anti-withdrawal effects related to nicotine use.
Among the brand names for generic drug bupropion is Zyban. In a study assessing the pharmacological effect of antidepressants for smoking cessation, the use of antidepressant Zyban was shown to make it 52% to 77% more likely for an individual to successfully stop smoking after at least six months. While there are no severe side effects that can lead to hospitalization, users must still take note of unwanted effects like dry mouth and nausea depending on their dosing strategy.
Nicotine pouches
Among the first-line therapeutics for smoking cessation is nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). In place of cigarettes or tobacco, NRT products supply a fixed dose of nicotine to the body in order to reduce smoking urges and withdrawal symptoms.
In a study comparing oral NRTs, using Nicorette gums and lozenges and BAT nicotine pouches, the pouches served as the most effective and satisfying alternative source of nicotine. More than half (55%) of the participants reported positive scores for its nicotine delivery and experience, while also citing the lack of severe side effects like dizziness or headaches.
Aside from being a small and discreet alternative, another advantage of the nicotine pouch is that it comes in varying strengths. This allows smokers to choose their preferred level of nicotine consumption and adjust the dosage as they see fit. The Rogue nicotine pouches at Prilla offer dosages ranging from 3mg to 6mg. This allows users to experiment with different levels in order to curb their nicotine cravings. Mixpacks are also a viable choice for first-time users who wish to experiment with flavors before committing to pouches as a long-term cessation aid.
Cognitive behavioral therapy
Behavioral interventions are typically combined with pharmacological treatment in order to increase the likelihood of successful cessation and give equal attention to the smoker’s physical health and mental wellness.
A study published in Nicotine & Tobacco Research notes that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in particular can contribute to seven consecutive days of smoking abstinence when facilitated in conjunction with NRTs like gums and patches. Participants who received CBT were more likely to remain abstinent than those who only received brief advice.
The study also involved digital clinician-assisted CBT, highlighting how behavioral interventions that contribute to the holistic care of smokers are now made more accessible through technology. As discussed in a previous article about ‘How the Online World Helps with Mental Health’, there are now online therapy services and mental health apps that provide resources and strategies for healthy coping and stress management, thus helping smokers manage their mental wellness throughout their cessation journey.
Ultimately, comprehensive smoking cessation involves a combination of medication and behavioral support that works for the individual’s needs and resources. Despite the emergence of alternative treatments, it is best to undertake methods whose effectiveness has been documented through clinical research and trials.
