Smoking has multiple health hazards, yet at the same time, nicotine is a highly addictive drug and breaking the habit can be difficult. Our smoking cessation program involves behavioral counseling, as well as incorporating vaccines to help curb cravings.

On the first day of the program, patients will receive two injections to help break the physical addiction to nicotine. The injections and patches work by blocking the receptors in the brain that nicotine normally occupies. Therefore, you don’t have the urge to smoke or the tolerance for smoking during the treatment program.

The injections are sedating and are usually given in the arms. The sedation can last from 12-24 hours. We recommend that you receive the injections on a Friday afternoon, or an afternoon when you will not need to work for the next 24 hours. After receiving the injections, you’ll need someone to drive you home.

Patients will also receive a prescription for pills and patches that will help break the physical addiction over a two-week period of time. In our experience, patients who are truly mentally prepared to quit smoking have found success with our program.

Patients who suffer from acute or open angle glaucoma, benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH), or arrhythmias aren’t a candidate for this program.

If you are interested in enrolling in our smoking cessation program, ask your primary care provider if you may be a candidate, or give us a call with any questions.