The smoking cessation program is a systematic medical support plan designed to help smokers break free from nicotine dependence and maintain a smoke-free life. This treatment combines behavioral therapy, medication, and social support, targeting both physiological cravings and psychological dependence through multi-faceted interventions. With monitoring by healthcare professionals and personalized plans, the success rate of quitting smoking can be increased to 30%-50%.
The core of the treatment is to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, and concentration difficulties. The medical team will tailor phased goals and provide real-time feedback based on the individual's level of nicotine addiction, smoking history, and health status, ensuring gradual adaptation to a smoke-free lifestyle.
Mainly divided into pharmacological and non-pharmacological categories:
Medications work by supplementing nicotine or regulating the brain's dopamine system to alleviate withdrawal reactions, while behavioral therapy involves recording smoking triggers, establishing alternative behaviors, and helping to develop long-term smoking cessation habits. Combining both approaches can increase the success rate to over 70%.
Suitable for adults who smoke more than 10 cigarettes daily and have a strong desire to quit. Particularly beneficial for those with a history of cardiovascular disease, lung disease, or cancer, as quitting can significantly reduce complication risks. For adolescents or special populations (such as pregnant women), dosage adjustments and therapy modifications are necessary.
Physicians will assess the severity using nicotine dependence tests (e.g., FTND score) and develop individualized plans. Heavy dependence may require high-dose NRT, while mild cases may primarily involve behavioral therapy.
Pharmacological treatments should follow medical advice:
Behavioral therapy typically involves weekly 1-2 sessions of group counseling, lasting 8-12 weeks. Pharmacological prevention begins 2 weeks before the quit date, combined with daily smoking diaries to track progress. The treatment duration is adjusted based on individual response, with heavy smokers potentially requiring up to 6 months.
Main benefits include:
Long-term benefits include:
Medications may cause:
Behavioral therapy may lead to:
Serious contraindications include within 72 hours after a heart attack, severe liver disease, and use of specific medications during pregnancy.
Before starting treatment:
Contraindicated groups include:
Strictly avoid self-adjusting medication dosages; discontinuation should follow gradual reduction principles.
Varenicline may interact with antidepressants (such as SSRIs), causing drowsiness or blood pressure abnormalities. When using NRT concurrently with beta-blockers, blood pressure should be monitored.
Herbal supplements like ginkgo biloba extract may interfere with metabolic enzyme systems and should be used under medical supervision. Patients undergoing radiotherapy or chemotherapy should adjust medication doses to avoid liver metabolism overload.
Clinical studies show that combining medication with behavioral therapy results in a smoking cessation success rate of 25%-30%, compared to about 5%-10% with behavioral therapy alone. A 2019 Cochrane review indicated that varenicline increases the quit rate to 29%, significantly higher than the 9% in placebo groups.
In Taiwan's Ministry of Health and Welfare's "Free Smoking Cessation Service," 6-month continuous abstinence rates reach 45%, demonstrating the effectiveness of public health interventions. Long-term follow-up indicates that lung and heart function after one year of quitting is comparable to that of non-smokers.
Non-traditional therapies include:
Self-initiated quitting methods require strict schedules, including daily reduction of cigarette intake and setting a quit date. Alternative therapies should be integrated with primary treatment plans and not used independently.
Individuals should discuss with their doctor or smoking cessation specialist based on their smoking habits, nicotine dependence level, and lifestyle to select the appropriate plan. Common methods include nicotine replacement therapy (such as gum and patches), medication (like varenicline), and psychological counseling. If under high stress, combining medication with counseling is recommended.
What should I do if I experience intense cravings during quitting?It is recommended to use distraction strategies immediately, such as chewing sugar-free gum, taking a short walk, or practicing deep breathing. If using NRT, increase the dosage as instructed to relieve cravings. Support can also be obtained through mobile apps or hotlines for professional assistance.
What are the long-term follow-up and support options after quitting?Post-cessation follow-up for at least 6 months is advised, with many hospitals or health units offering free follow-up services. Joining support groups, maintaining communication with family and friends, and attending health education seminars can reduce relapse risk. Hotlines and online communities are also valuable long-term resources.
How to manage side effects of smoking cessation treatments?NRT may cause dry mouth or headaches, which can be managed by adjusting usage as per instructions. Medications like varenicline may cause gastrointestinal discomfort; adherence to prescribed schedules and monitoring reactions are important. If severe adverse effects occur, stop medication immediately and consult a doctor. Anxiety related to psychological aspects can be alleviated through mindfulness exercises or counseling.
What factors influence the success rate of smoking cessation?The success rate is closely related to the individual's motivation, the adequacy of social support systems, and whether professional treatment is used. Studies show that smokers combining medication and behavioral therapy have a 2-3 times higher rate of abstinence at 6 months compared to those relying solely on willpower. Continued participation in support groups also significantly improves long-term success.
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