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Can new treatments help me quit smoking safely?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 35-year-old woman trying to quit smoking after 10 years. I have tried nicotine gum before, but I always relapse when I am stressed. My doctor told me about new prescription medicines and online support programs. I want to know:

  1. Do these really help, and are they safe for women?

  2. I am also concerned about weight gain after quitting. Are there ways to control cravings naturally?

  3. I have seen advertisements about women-specific quit-smoking campaigns. Do they offer counseling or emotional support?

I really want to stop, but I need motivation that actually lasts. Please help.

Thank you in advance.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Yes, the newer prescription medicines truly do help. Varenicline and Bupropion are the two most commonly used options, and I prefer Varenicline. Both are safe for women when used correctly. However, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, we usually recommend non-drug or nicotine replacement options instead. Many patients achieve the best results when they start the medicine one to two weeks before their planned quit date so that the body is prepared.

Support programs actually double or triple success rates. The women-specific programs focus more on emotional and hormonal triggers. Having someone to message or talk to on difficult days makes a big difference, and you will meet others who understand exactly what those cravings feel like.

Yes, some people do gain a few pounds after quitting, but that can be managed. Keeping your meals high in protein and fiber, staying physically active, and choosing small, frequent healthy snacks such as nuts or yogurt can help maintain your weight.

As for cravings, most last only five to 10 minutes, so it is better to ride them out rather than fight them. Try the “delay and distract” technique, drink a glass of water, take ten slow, deep breaths, go for a short walk, or chew sugar-free gum. Exercise, deep breathing, and mindfulness reduce the background stress that often triggers cravings. Adequate sleep is also essential, as tired brains tend to crave nicotine more strongly.

Motivation needs to be refueled regularly. Identify what drives you the most: is it your health, your family’s well-being, early graying of your hair, or skin damage caused by smoking? Find that reason and focus on it. Watch smoking cessation videos and talk to people who have successfully quit.

If you truly want to stop smoking, you absolutely can.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert so I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At January 8, 2026
Reviewed AtJanuary 12, 2026

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