Book an appointment with your pharmacist
Need a consultation related to the health condition discussed in this article? Schedule an appointment with your pharmacist at a time that works for you.
As you know, quitting smoking isn’t easy, but your pharmacist is knowledgeable about smoking cessation and can help you in many ways. In this article, you'll learn about five of them.
1
Your pharmacist can help you develop an action plan
It’s easy for smokers to indefinitely put off taking action. There are plenty of reasons to think that the time isn't right. It is true that quitting smoking for good is a big challenge, but it’s one that all smokers can handle!
Some people make the mistake of starting the quitting process without first preparing an action plan.
This can be difficult to do if your knowledge of smoking cessation is limited. Pharmacists know a lot about this topic. Ask them for ways and strategies that will increase your chances of success.
2
Your pharmacist can help you choose a smoking cessation aid
Smoking cessation aids are medications that make quitting smoking easier by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, nervousness, irritability and difficulty concentrating, which considerably increases the chances of success. Experts in the field recommend their use, as they estimate that only one in twenty people is successful in quitting smoking for good without using them.
Smoking cessation aids fall into two groups: oral treatments and nicotine replacement therapies. The two oral medications officially approved in Canada are varenicline and bupropion. They are available by prescription only. Nicotine replacement therapies (patch, gum, lozenge, inhaler or spray) do not require a prescription.
All of these products are considered first-line treatments for smoking cessation and are covered by many insurance companies when prescribed. The good news is that your pharmacist can now prescribe them as part of a consultation to assess your situation and ensure that you are receiving the best possible treatment.
3
Your pharmacist can advise you on the optimal use of smoking cessation aids.
As a drug expert, your pharmacist is well qualified to advise you and help you make the best choice. They can then provide you with information including, how to use the medication, its side effects, and the warnings and precautions associated with it. With their advice, you will get the most out of the treatment and increase your chances of success.
Sometimes people, despite their best efforts, fail to quit smoking because they don't follow the recommendations for using the smoking cessation aid they have chosen. Additionally, some people do not use the product for the full duration of the course of treatment, stopping along the way. It is generally accepted that at least 10 to 12 weeks of treatment is required to increase the chances of success. In some cases, an even longer treatment may be considered. Your pharmacist can inform you about this.
4
Your pharmacist can give you tips on how to overcome your cravings and deal with your withdrawal symptoms
It is well known that cravings and withdrawal symptoms are what make quitting smoking difficult. Many people find it hard to manage them.
In this regard, there are several sources of information available to you, including the Internet. For example, the iquitnow.qc.ca website has a wealth of useful information. Also, ask some ex-smokers to share their winning strategies with you. The more information you have, the better your chances of achieving your goal.
Once again, your pharmacist can play a crucial role. Pharmacists' expertise and experience make them a valuable resource. By asking questions, you will better understand tobacco addiction and discover ways to overcome it. Simple tips within your reach often make all the difference. For tips on how to control your cravings, read the following text: Quitting smoking: how do you overcome cravings?
5
Your pharmacist can assist you in the smoking cessation process
Having the support of others will make it easier for you to quit and help you succeed. Your parents, friends, and colleagues can be a significant source of motivation and support. That said, it is also important to have the support of a healthcare professional throughout the process, such as your pharmacist, whose help and guidance will be appreciated every step of the way.
Pharmacists care about people’s health and are willing to invest time and energy in order to help them. They will be happy to monitor your progress and offer encouragement and advice. If you have questions, concerns, doubts, or you just need an extra dose of motivation along the way, drop by or give them a call!
