When Your Doctor Pushes Drugs

Many people want to do things naturally now. People are paying attention to what artificial flavors and colors, transfats and preservatives there are in their foods. When it comes to drugs, many of us are seeing the benefit to avoiding those as well. Drug ads are littered with warnings about side effects and it seems many times the drug is worse than the disease.

Quit smoking drugs are some of the worst offenders in the side effects department. Some people who take them are terrorized by horrific dreams and possible deadly skin rashes. It’s no wonder why people would rather smoke than take a chance on what the doctor is prescribing. That being said, the first step in any quit plan should be to consult your doctor. Even though some doctors will immediately go for the prescription pad, most will consider your medical history and help you make a plan that will work. If your doctor grabs the pad and hands you a script right away, especially if this is your first time quitting, you might want to get a second opinion.

With clearance from your doctor, begin identifying when, where and why you smoke. Then create substitute situations for those times when you crave a cigarette. Develop a deliberate and different pattern for each of these moments where you would otherwise grab a smoke. When you are stressed, grab a healthy snack. When you are tempted, take a walk. There are other natural “things” to try, such as herbs and hypnosis, but what really matters is that you change your habits. Choosing to go to something rather than going away from cigarettes makes changing these habits much easier.

Is it tough to quit? Sure it is, but with the right plan developed specifically for you, by you and your doctor, you improve your chances at success.