Pharmacotherapy of smoking cessation.

Abstract

Nicotine in tobacco smoke causes not only pathophysiological changes in the smoker's body, but also develops tolerance to its own action with repeated use. Repeated exposure to nicotine develops neuroadaptation of the receptors, resulting in tolerance to many of the effects of nicotine. Pharmacotherapies for smoking cessation should reduce withdrawal symptoms and block the reinforcing effects of nicotine without causing excessive adverse effects. All forms of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) – gum, patches and inhaler – and bupropion are safe and effective for increasing smoking cessation rates in the short and long-term use. Combination NRT (more than one therapy) may be indicated in patients who have failed monotherapy.