Getting help to stop smoking
Where do I go for help?
The first point of contact when you are considering stopping smoking should be your GP or practice nurse. Smoking cessation classes or one to one support could be available within the practice and you can discuss Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). Your local chemist can also give you advice.
Contact Smokeline (the smoking cessation helpline) for telephone support and information on: 0800 84 84 84. You can also contact the NHS Tayside Smoking Helpline on 0845 600 999 6.
How can I break the habit?
First you must make your own plan about how and when you are going to give up. Set a date and work towards this date. By making the decision to stop, and seeking professional help and support, you can do it.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): The more frequently you smoke, the more you are likely to need the help of NRT to stop. It comes in a variety of different products and in various strengths e.g. patches or gum. Before using NRT, it is important to speak to your doctor. It also needs to be used according to the instructions to get the most benefit.
Zyban: Zyban (Buproprion) is another drug developed to help with stopping smoking. It is only available on prescription and treatment has to be monitored closely by your GP. It has been found to be effective although it does have side effects and is not suitable for everyone.
The information on this page has been adapted from a Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland leaflet "
Living with angina"