How to Stop Smoking With Shots
You've tried patches, gums, even quitting old turkey, but nothing works --- you're still smoking. Nicotine is a powerfully addictive drug, and overcoming its hold can be difficult. Some people are even turning to injections intended to cure them of smoking, and the success rates are high --- as much as 70 or 80 percent of individuals report success quitting smoking after taking the shots, according to SmokingShot.com.
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Instructions
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Request information on the shots from your doctor or clinic. You will receive either a video or pamphlet explaining the smoking shots in detail, including the procedure, the need for follow-up doctor visits and possible side effects.
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Begin weaning yourself of your smoking habit before your injection. You do not need to quit, but reducing your daily intake will improve your likelihood of successfully quitting.
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Receive one to three shots, depending on your doctor. These injections, given in the hip and possibly your arm and behind your ear, will block nicotine receptors in your brain.
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Schedule follow-up appointments to track your progress, per your doctor's orders. You may also be encouraged to meet with counselors who will help you through the recovery process, including monitoring any changes in behavior and managing any side effects that arise.
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Take atropine tablets and wear a scopolamine patch behind your ear for two weeks. Atropine is an agent that inhibits nerve impulses to reduce muscle spasms. Scopolamine is administered as a pain reliever.
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Tips & Warnings
Check with your health insurer to see if any portion of the cost for smoking shots is covered. The total cost usually ranges from $350 to $500.
Temporary side effects can include dry mouth, dizziness, confusion, blurry vision and difficulty urinating, according to The Wall Street Journal. Smoking shots should not be considered if you take mood-altering drugs, have heart or prostate problems, or are pregnant. No published studies have verified the 80 percent success rate claimed by those who administer the shots.
References
- Photo Credit Photo courtesy of Saudi... on Flickr
