Expert: Michael Dean - 3/27/2009

Question
Hi,
I casually smoke, meaning some days I don't smoke. Other days like a chimney. When drinking, it is the most. Probably a few packs a week. Is there a safer cigarette or less bad one for you? Not a great question, but I'd like to know of alternatives or maybe there isn't one. Smoking is nothing good for the body, but I lack the decision to stop completely. I've stopped on occasion for a few days or for a week or so when sick, but always light up again. As crazy as it is, the fear of something going wrong isn't enough for me to put it down right now. I've been up and down for a decade or more. What are some ideas you have for slowing down?
Thanks

Answer
Dear Mike,

There is no safer cigarette. Except for quitting the only thing that helps is to smoke less. You should quit now before you become more addicted. It will only get harder. Many people take several attempts to quit.

There are of course many methods to quit.

You can try cold turkey. I'd suggest you read "The EasyWay to Quit Smoking" by Allen Carr. He explains how smoking has no positive benefit in your life and the many advantages of quitting. The book has been a best seller in Europe for many years, and you might find it useful. You should also call 1-800-QUIT-Now and find out about resources in your state. Some states provide free therapy and telephone quitlines, and these are useful.

There are a number of new drug therapies that are highly effective. Talk to your doctor about prescribing both Chantix and Zyban. Chantix is a new drug that blocks nicotine's action. Zyban helps in reducing anxiety and withdrawal symptoms. Pfizer provides an online counseling program along with Zyban.

Nicotine replacement therapy is another option. Patches, gums etc. all work for many people.

Can you stay out of situations where you might smoke, at least for a month or two? Are there non-smoking bars where you live?

Or for online resources:
http://smokefree.gov/

I have a site with info as well:
http://artsciencepub.com/quitting.htm

Let me know how this goes,

Good luck,

Michael Dean, Ph.D.
Author "Empty Cribs-The Impact of Smoking on Child Health"
http//www.artsciencepub.com