Are You Ready to Quit Smoking?
Did you know that quitting smoking can add 3-10 years to your life? As soon as you quit smoking, your risk of cancer, lung problems, and heart disease starts to drop and your health improves.
Why is Quitting so Hard?
Smoking is more than a habit; its an addiction. In fact, people become addicted to nicotine in much the same way that they become addicted to heroin and cocaine.
When you smoke, nicotine goes right to your brain in seconds and causes the release of dopamine, a chemical that gives you a feeling of pleasure and calm. But when you are between cigarettes, the level of dopamine drops, and that creates nicotine withdrawal. You may experience symptoms such as lightheadedness, sleep disturbance, irritation, or anxiety. These, along with the nicotine cravings, can make quitting very difficult.
The Good News!
The right treatment plan can boost your chances of success! Medication can double or triple your chances of quitting successfully. Combing with professional advice can increase your success rate up to 4 times.
Even Better News!
The BC Government has a program to help! The British Columbia Smoking Cessation Program is available to all BC residents registered with Pharmacare. There are multiple options to help you quit; Nicotine Replacement therapies (patches, gum, lozenges and inhalers) as well prescription medications (Zyban/Champix). The program covers up to 12 weeks of therapy each calendar year.
Not Sure What Treatment is Right for You?
Consult with your Shoppers Drug Mart pharmacist or Doctor to help choose what treatment is best suited to help you quit.
Still want More Information?
There are many websites available:
Shoppers Drug Mart has a website specifically to help you quit smoking, visit us at www.shoppersdrugmart.ca/quitsmoking or visit www.quitnow.ca or www.gov.bc.ca/bcsmoking cessation for more information on the program.
Or call your local Shoppers Drug Mart and talk to any of the friendly pharmacists (Naomi, Sharma and Jon) on duty 8am-10pm, 7 days a week. 250-498-3663