Why You Should Stop Smoking
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, but it can be challenging due to the addictive nature of nicotine. Nicotine withdrawal causes cravings and a range of symptoms, making it difficult to stop. At Heald Green Pharmacy, we offer expert advice and effective treatments to support you on your journey to a smoke-free life.
Why Is Quitting Smoking So Hard?
Even people who are determined to quit can struggle due to nicotine addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can make the process difficult, and common symptoms include:
–> Strong urges to smoke
–> Weight gain
–> Headaches
–> Insomnia
–> Concentration problems
–> Fatigue
–> Restlessness and irritability
Understanding these symptoms and preparing for them can increase your chances of quitting successfully.
How to Stop Smoking
Stopping smoking requires planning, determination, and support. Below are some tips to help you quit:
–> Seek Support – Ask friends and family not to smoke around you to reduce temptation.
–> Replace Smoking with Healthier Habits – Instead of a cigarette break, take a five-minute walk to reduce cravings.
–> Save Money – Put the money you would have spent on cigarettes into a jar to visualise your progress.
–> Stay Positive – Every day without a cigarette is a step towards better health.
–> Consider E-Cigarettes – While not risk-free, e-cigarettes may help some people transition away from smoking.
You can also explore alternative therapies such as hypnotherapy, acupuncture, or counselling to find what works best for you.
Quit Smoking Treatments Available
At Heald Green Pharmacy, we offer a range of treatments to help you quit smoking and manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
NRT provides controlled doses of nicotine to ease cravings without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. Options include:
–> Nicotine Patches – Provide a steady release of nicotine throughout the day.
–> Nicotine Gum and Lozenges – Help manage cravings as they arise.
–> Nicotine Inhalers and Sprays – Offer fast-acting relief for sudden cravings.
Prescription Medications
–> Zyban (Bupropion) – A medication that helps reduce nicotine cravings. This 12-week course allows for complete withdrawal from cigarette addiction.
–> Champix (Varenicline) – Reduces the pleasure of smoking and lessens withdrawal symptoms.
Alternative Approaches
Some individuals find non-medical therapies helpful, including:
–> Hypnotherapy – Can help change the way you think about smoking.
–> Acupuncture – May help reduce withdrawal symptoms.
–> Behavioural Therapy – Talking to a counsellor can help identify and change smoking habits.
The Benefits of Quitting Smoking
Quitting smoking has immediate and long-term health benefits, including:
–> Improved lung function and easier breathing.
–> Lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer.
–> Improved circulation and energy levels.
–> Better skin appearance and fresher breath.
Speak to Our Pharmacist
If you’re ready to quit smoking, Heald Green Pharmacy is here to help. Our pharmacists can provide guidance on the best treatments, offer personalised support, and help you develop a plan to stop smoking for good. Reach out today for guidance and support.
For additional support, call the NHS Smokefree Helpline on 0300 123 1044 or visit: NHS Quit Smoking Information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Take a look at the questions we get asked the most
We can provide treatment for a range of conditions, including weight management, travel health, minor infections, skin conditions, ear health, and more. Our pharmacist prescribers can issue prescriptions where appropriate, and we operate under Patient Group Directions (PGDs) for specific treatments.
Appointments must be booked via our online booking calendar. Simply select the service you need, choose a suitable time, and confirm your appointment.
Yes! We offer both online and in-store consultations. Our pharmacist prescribers can assess your condition and recommend treatments through a secure online consultation, saving you time and hassle.
Once your consultation is complete, you can either collect your medication in-store or have it delivered to your home for convenience.
If a payment is required, we can send you a secure payment link, allowing you to pay online quickly and easily before receiving your treatment. Or, you can pay in store.
A Pharmacist Prescriber is a qualified pharmacist who can assess medical conditions, prescribe treatments, and issue prescriptions without needing a GP appointment. This allows for faster access to treatment.
PGDs allow our pharmacists to provide certain prescription-only medicines without a GP prescription. This means you can receive treatment for common conditions like weight loss, travel vaccinations, minor infections, and more, directly from our pharmacy.
No, you don’t need a referral. Our pharmacists are qualified to assess, prescribe, and dispense medications for a variety of conditions, meaning you can receive treatment quickly without seeing a GP.
Most medications can be dispensed immediately after your consultation if collected in-store. If you choose delivery, we aim to dispatch your medication within 24–48 hours, depending on delivery.
