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Current Approaches to the Management of Smoking Cessation

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Abstract

Smoking remains a widespread intractable behaviour and is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Effective approaches to smoking cessation include behavioural intervention and pharmacotherapy, in particular nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and sustained-release bupropion (bupropion SR). Pharmacotherapy remains a popular choice of smoking cessation intervention for many smokers, and both NRT and bupropion SR, combined with behavioural interventions, achieve 1.5- to >2-fold increases in smoking cessation rates. Various national and international smoking cessation guidelines have been published recommending effective implementation of smoking cessation strategies. Recommendations include the systematic identification of smokers, assessment of their willingness to quit smoking, provision of advice promoting a cessation attempt, and administration of approved first-line therapies.

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Acknowledgements

G. Sutherland has received travel funds from, and undertaken research and consultancy for, manufacturers of nicotine replacement therapy and bupropion.

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  1. Tobacco Research Section, National Addiction Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Kings College, 4 Windsor Walk, London, SE5 8AF, UK

    Gay Sutherland

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Sutherland, G. Current Approaches to the Management of Smoking Cessation. Drugs 62 (Suppl 2), 53–61 (2002). https://doi.org/10.2165/00003495-200262002-00006

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