For many people, medication can be the key to getting through those first weeks or months without cigarettes. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved seven medications to help smokers quit. Five help you manage withdrawal symptoms and urges by providing small amounts of nicotine. The other two options are the prescription drugs bupropion (Zyban® and Wellbutrin®) and varenicline (Chantix®). Research shows that taking either bupropion or varenicline also helps reduce cravings for cigarettes.
Be sure to speak with your health care provider about how medication can help you in your efforts to quit. Some smoking cessation medications are available at your local pharmacy without a prescription; others must be prescribed by a doctor. (Note: These medications may be available in generic or brand-name form.)
Smoking Cessation Medications
| Type | Form | Some brand names | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicotine Replacement Therapies | Gum | Nicorette® | Over-the-counter (OTC) |
| Patch | Nicoderm®, Habitrol®, Prostep®, Nicotrol® | OTC and prescription | |
| Inhaler | Nicotrol® | Prescription | |
| Nasal Spray | Nicotrol® | Prescription | |
| Lozenge | Commit® | OTC | |
| Bupropion | Pill | Zyban®, Wellbutrin® | Prescription |
| Varenicline | Pill | Chantix® | Prescription |
Adapted from www.cdc.gov and includes additional information from www.fda.gov
According to the National Institutes of Health, using one of these scientifically-tested
treatments could double your chances of quitting smoking.9
Experts now say that all
smokers trying to quit should think about using medication, especially those who smoke
ten or more cigarettes a day. 
10
All of these FDA-approved methods have been found to be safe and effective when used
as directed. 
11Of course, any medication can cause side effects.
For more information on the side effects or safety of smoking cessation medications, visit the website of the medication's maker or the treatobacco.net website's Safety section .
Before you start, read the instructions carefully. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist,
if you have any questions about how to use your medication. It's especially important
to talk with your doctor before you use quit-smoking medications—including
nonprescription ones—if you are under age 18, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a
medical condition. 
12
You may be able to use medication (under a doctor's supervision)
even if you have a health problem. For example, the patch has been shown to be safe for
many people with heart disease. 
13
Most medications are recommended for use for between two to six months. If you feel you need more help to stay quit, you may use medication for a longer time with your doctor's approval.
For more information on how to use medications, go to the My Clear Horizon website's Getting Ready section and click on "If You're Going to Use Nicotine Replacement Therapy or Zyban®."
If you decide to use a medication in your efforts to quit smoking, be sure to read carefully and follow the labeling instructions that come with the medication. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. These medications can cause side effects. Additional information is available from public health authorities, such as the National Cancer Institute of the Department of Health and Human Services. This information is not an endorsement of any brand or any product by PM USA.
