How to quit smoking with medication?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

I am very sorry that you are going through this. Living with COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), struggling with addiction, and feeling pressure from family can be emotionally exhausting. The fact that you have tried quitting many times shows real strength. Every quit attempt teaches your brain something and increases the chance of success, even if it did not last before. Your motivation to protect your lungs and your grandchildren is powerful, and there are newer tools that may help you this time without causing the side effects you experienced in the past. There are several medication options for people who cannot use nicotine replacement and who did not tolerate Chantix (Varenicline).

One option is Bupropion, which is an oral medication that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It does not contain nicotine and often helps with mood, anxiety, and menopause related depression, which can be a major advantage in your situation. It also tends to reduce the amount of post-quitting weight gain. Another option is a newer nicotine-free medication called cytisine, available in some countries, which acts on the same nicotine receptors but with a safer side effect profile. Some pulmonologists also prescribe combination therapy such as Bupropion plus behavioral therapy. Because you have a history of severe side effects on Chantix, any medication should be monitored closely by your doctor, especially regarding mood.

Hypnosis and behavioral therapies can be effective for some smokers, especially those who smoke due to stress, boredom, or habit cues. Scientific evidence shows that hypnosis works best when combined with counseling and a clear quit plan rather than used alone. Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you understand triggers, manage stress, and replace smoking rituals with healthier routines. Many hospitals and public health departments have free COPD-focused quitting programs that use videos, counseling, and text reminders. These campaigns are designed for people exactly in your situation, so you do not have to fight alone. Weight gain is a common fear and very understandable, especially with menopause-related changes. Even modest exercise, like short daily walks, improves mood, reduces cravings, and helps control weight.

Choosing high-fiber snacks, drinking plenty of water, and planning meals can reduce cravings. Some doctors add bupropion partly because it helps limit weight gain. It is important to remember that even if you gained a few pounds during quitting, the benefit to your lungs and life expectancy is far greater, and the weight can be managed later with diet and exercise support. I want to reassure you that lungs do improve after quitting. Inflammation decreases, coughing reduces, breathing becomes easier, and the rate of decline of lung function slows. Many patients with COPD feel noticeably less short of breath within weeks. You are not starting too late, and quitting now can protect your quality of life. If you want, you can tell me what usually triggers relapse for you, for example, stress, social situations, or morning coffee. Understanding your unique pattern helps build a personalized quit strategy.

I hope this information will help you.

Thanks.