The Call-On-Doc Guide to Smoking Cessation

Smoking affects nearly every organ system in the body. Long-term tobacco use significantly increases the risk of:

• Heart disease and stroke

• Lung cancer and other cancers

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• High blood pressure

• Diabetes complications

• Weakened immune function

• Fertility and pregnancy complications

Quitting smoking reduces these risks over time. Within days to weeks, circulation improves and lung function begins to recover. Over months and years, the risk of serious disease continues to decline.

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that alters brain chemistry. When nicotine enters the bloodstream, it stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on nicotine to maintain normal dopamine levels.

When nicotine intake stops, withdrawal symptoms can occur, including:

• Irritability

• Anxiety

• Difficulty concentrating

• Increased appetite

• Cravings

• Sleep disturbances

These symptoms are temporary but can make quitting difficult without support.

Current medical guidelines support a combination of behavioral support and medication as the most effective approach to quitting.

Behavioral Support

Behavioral strategies help address the habits and triggers associated with smoking. These may include:

• Identifying triggers (stress, social situations, routines)

• Developing coping strategies

• Setting a quit date

• Tracking progress

• Counseling or coaching support

Even brief counseling has been shown to significantly increase quit success.

Prescription and over-the-counter medications can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

NRT provides controlled doses of nicotine without harmful smoke toxins. Options include:

• Nicotine patches

• Nicotine gum

• Nicotine lozenges

These can be used alone or in combination under medical guidance.

Prescription Medications

• Bupropion (Zyban): Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms by affecting brain chemistry

• Varenicline (Chantix): Reduces nicotine cravings and blocks the pleasurable effects of smoking

These medications are most effective when combined with behavioral support and should be prescribed based on individual health history.

E-cigarettes are not approved smoking cessation tools. While some individuals use them as a transition away from cigarettes, they still deliver nicotine and may expose users to harmful substances.

Medical guidelines recommend FDA-approved cessation therapies rather than vaping for quitting smoking.

Many people attempt to quit multiple times before succeeding. Common challenges include:

• Fear of weight gain

• Stress management

• Social habits

• Withdrawal symptoms

• Relapse after initial success

Relapse does not mean failure. Each quit attempt increases the likelihood of long-term success.

Medical support is especially important if:

• You have underlying health conditions

• You experience severe withdrawal symptoms

• You’ve tried quitting multiple times without success

• You want medication support

Call-On-Doc provides online access to licensed healthcare providers who can help create a personalized quit plan and prescribe appropriate treatments.

Quitting smoking doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Call-On-Doc offers fast, convenient online care to support smoking cessation, including prescriptions when appropriate—without office visits or long wait times.

Taking the first step today can lead to lasting improvements in health, energy, and quality of life.

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