Alternatives to Smoking

There are tons of different methods smokers use to try to kick the habit. If you’re trying to find alternatives to smoking, it doesn’t really matter how you do it, as long as you’re able to stay away from tobacco. Some people try one way and that works for them. Others try everything they can think of, but nothing works. While people do use vaping as a smoking alternative, e cig manufacturers are not allowed to advertise their products as a way to quit smoking. A large reason why many people do not have success using other methods is because they fail to provide the same hand to mouth motion that vaping provides. These are some methods people use as an alternative to smoking.

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)

Nicotine replacement therapy uses products with low doses of nicotine. They do not contain the toxins found in cigarette smoke. The goal of NRT products is to cut down on nicotine cravings and lessen withdrawal symptoms.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture treatments focus on jitters, cravings, irritability and restlessness, all symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit smoking. It also helps with relaxation and detoxification.

Cold turkey

Some people quit smoking by completely stopping abruptly. This works for some people, while others need to lessen the amount they smoke until they quit altogether, or use some form of NRT.

Counseling

Counseling in person or over the phone is helpful to some smokers. You can get one-on-one counseling, or go to a local group at a hospital or church.

Hypnosis

Some people use hypnosis as a way to quit smoking. Hypnosis is an altered state of awareness in which you appear to be asleep or in a trance. During hypnosis a patient is often asked to imagine unpleasant outcomes from smoking.

Inhalers

This NRT has a nicotine cartridge that fits inside the inhaler. Some people think it’s helpful with the oral fixation of cigarettes.

Lozenges

These come with or without a prescription. Some people prefer these because you can control the nicotine dose.

Nasal spray

This provides a quick dose of nicotine to satisfy strong cravings.

Nicotine gum

Nicotine is delivered to the bloodstream by tissues of the mouth. Nicotine gum comes in different strengths.

Nicotine patches

Patches are applied directly to the skin and release nicotine through the skin. They come in various strengths so the smoker can wean themselves down.

Prescription drugs

Some smokers’ doctors prescribe them medication to help them quit smoking. Some prescription drugs that are used include Bupropion (Zyban), Varenicline tartrate (Chantix/Champix), Clonidine, Nortriptline, Cytisine.

Vaping

Although not marketed as such, a lot of people use e cigs as an alternative to smoking. Many smokers prefer vaping because it gives you the hand to mouth motion of smoking, while delivering nicotine as you inhale and exhale through your mouth.  Some smoking alternatives deliver nicotine, others serve the oral fixation, but e cigs do both. That is why so many people have successfully transitioned from smoking cigarettes to vaping electronic cigarettes.