A.  Yes. Research shows that most patients with heart disease can safely use the patch, gum, spray or inhaler. However, if you've recently had heart problems, such as an irregular or rapid heartbeat, or chest pain, consult your doctor before using nicotine replacement products. The amount of nicotine in these products is about one-third the amount that you’re receiving from cigarettes. It’s far better for you to use these products than to continue to smoke. The carbon monoxide in cigarettes robs your heart of oxygen that it needs to work properly. Be sure to talk with your doctor about which medicine is best for you and how long to use it.

A.  Yes. Research shows that most patients with heart disease can safely use the patch, gum, spray or inhaler. However, if you've recently had heart problems, such as an irregular or rapid heartbeat, or chest pain, consult your doctor before using nicotine replacement products. The amount of nicotine in these products is about one-third the amount that you’re receiving from cigarettes. It’s far better for you to use these products than to continue to smoke. The carbon monoxide in cigarettes robs your heart of oxygen that it needs to work properly. Be sure to talk with your doctor about which medicine is best for you and how long to use it.

A. No tobacco product is safe. Smokeless tobacco should not be used for smoking cessation because long-term use moderately increases the risk of a fatal heart attack, fatal stroke and certain cancers. It is also addictive – smokeless tobacco users often experience the same withdrawal symptoms as individuals who stop smoking cigarettes.

A.  All of the medicines work well in helping a person to quit smoking. If you associate smoking with having something in your mouth, you may do better with nicotine gum. The patch delivers nicotine continuously for 16 hours while you are awake, or 24 hours if you use a patch that’s worn all night. If you haven’t had success with other nicotine products, the nasal spray or inhaler may help you. A non-nicotine prescription medicine such as bupropion hydrochloride or varenicline can help most people and may be used with nicotine medicines. Talk to your doctor about which medicine might work best for you. Take a look at the various types of smoking cessation medications.

A.   The medicines may delay weight gain. Most people gain a few pounds after they stop taking the medicine. The average weight gain after quitting smoking is only about six pounds. You can limit your weight gain by getting regular physical activity and choosing low-fat, low-calorie snacks.

A.   People who quit smoking will tell you that giving up cigarettes can be very difficult. It can feel like a loss because people often associate smoking with pleasure. If you’ve been depressed when you’ve tried to quit before, you may benefit from a non-nicotine prescription medicine such as bupropion hydrochloride or varenicline. It’s harder to kick the smoking habit when you’re depressed.

A.  During the quitting process, people often slip and have a cigarette. It's important not to feel like you failed at quitting; just give it another chance.

If you need more support, look for quit-smoking programs through hospitals, the American Cancer Society*, American Heart Association or American Lung Association*. Some states have hotlines with trained staff to help you with quitting. Some people benefit from group support like Smokers Anonymous*. Check the yellow pages of your phone book, search the Internet or ask your nurses and doctors for help finding a program or support group.

Visit our Quit Smoking Resources section for more information.

A. Yes, we do. Download any of the following PDFs. They each have valuable information and tips to help you become and remain a non-smoker.

Quitting Smoking

How Confident Are You That You Can Quit Smoking?

Quit Smoking Contract

Avoiding Weight Gain When You Quit Smoking

Handling Stress After Quitting Smoking