The 2008 United States Public Health Service Guidelines: Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence recommend a combination of counseling and medication.
- Medications Dosing Chart
- FDA-Approved Medications — web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Nicotine Patch: web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Nicotine Lozenge: web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Nicotine Gum: web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Varenicline: web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Bupropion: web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Nicotine Inhaler: web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Nicotine Spray: web friendly
- Billing Codes — web friendly or printer-friendly PDF
- Medication Interactions with Tobacco Smoke
- FDA Removes Box Warnings from Chantix, Zyban
Varenicline
This is the latest medication approved by the FDA for smoking cessation.
Nicotine Spray
Only available via prescription. It delivers nicotine through your nose. Recommended use is up to two sprays an hour.
Nicotine Inhaler
Only available via prescription. Patients "puff" small doses of nicotine through this product that looks similar to a cigarette.
Nicotine Patch
Nicotine patches are designed to provide a steady stream of nicotine through your skin over a designated time.
Bupropion
Bupropion SR is a prescription pill marketed under the brand name Zyban. It is also available generically.
Nicotine Gum
Available without a prescription. It is recommended for smokers who want something to turn to when experiencing urges to smoke.
Nicotine Lozenge
This medication is available over the counter. It is usually used for eight to 12 weeks.