If you want to quit smoking you are NOT alone.

Some people quit on thier own by just stopping but most people find it is not easy to break the smoking habit. Help is available but it still may take a few attempts to quit. That does not mean you should not try.

There is not a universal method to quit smoking. Different people respond to different methods and it may take a few attempts to find what works best for you. For some, support from friends or a spouse can be a great help. Others do well with counseling or nicotine replacement therapy. This can be in the form of a nicotine patch, nicotine chewing gum or other forms of nicotine replacement. Most will find that changes in their daily routine that help avoid the usual smoking situations will help them not smoke.

Nicotine replacements are medicines that help decrease or stop a smoker's withdrawal symptoms by providing a controlled dose of nicotine without the other harmful components of cigarette smoke. Nicotine replacement is available as patches, gums, inhalers, nasal sprays, or lozenges. The FDA (US Food and Drug Administration) has approved all of these products as smoking cessation aids. Some of these will require a doctor’s prescription.

Nicotine replacement products help smokers control their physical responses as they quit. Nicotine replacement is only part of the fight to stop smoking. In addtion to this, smokers should also participate in a behavioral change program that is designed to help smokers break their psychological dependence on cigarettes.

People with certain medical conditions and pregnant women should not use Nicotine replacements. It is also essential that users do not smoke cigarettes or use tobacco in any form while using nicotine replacements because by using two sources of nicotine, they will receive excessive doses which is dangerous.

If Nicotine replacement is not right for you, your doctor may prescribe bupropion (which is sold under the name Zyban").

You can stop smoking. Try over the counter aids and follow package directions. If you need more help consult your doctor.