Smoking is a major global health concern due to its role as the leading cause of preventable diseases and deaths. It is never too late to quit smoking, as research shows health benefits can be gained at any age, regardless of smoking history. A recent review focused on the most effective smoking cessation strategies, which may include a combination of behavioral therapies and financial incentives. Additionally, findings from papers published between 2021 and 2023 highlight the success rates of treatments such as varenicline, cytisine, and nicotine e-cigarettes in aiding smoking cessation.
CTAG, a group focusing on tobacco addiction treatments, published 14 reviews between 2021 and 2023 outlining key findings and updated conclusions. Key treatments mentioned in the reviews included varenicline, cytisine, and nicotine e-cigarettes, which showed higher success rates in smoking cessation. Varenicline, a prescription oral tablet, has been found to be more effective than bupropion or single form nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). It was highlighted that behavioral therapies and traditional pharmacotherapies are encouraged over e-cigarettes for smoking cessation.
The review emphasized that varenicline was more effective than bupropion or single form NRT at aiding smoking cessation. Furthermore, the research mentioned that cytisine was associated with fewer reports of serious adverse events compared to varenicline. Studies also found that bupropion was more effective than placebo for smoking cessation, but was linked to more serious adverse events. Additionally, evidence suggested that combining fast-acting NRT gums, lozenges, and sprays with transdermal patches was more effective than single form NRT.
Behavioral therapy was also highlighted as an effective method for smoking cessation, potentially increasing quit rates at 6 months or longer. The benefits of behavioral therapy were seen with or without smoking cessation medications, although slightly lower success rates were noted with medications alone. Research on mindfulness-based therapy showed mixed results, and further evidence is needed to confirm specific therapeutic benefits. The Cochrane Review of e-cigarettes indicated that ECs with nicotine may lead to higher quit rates than NRT, and switching to ECs from smoking could reduce harmful biomarkers.
The research also discussed associations between smoking cessation and reduced risk of major cardiovascular events, as well as improvements in symptoms of anxiety and depression among smokers who quit. Behavioral support from dental professionals, when combined with pharmacotherapy, was found to be associated with higher quit rates. The authors emphasized the need for more research on the long-term safety and effectiveness of ECs as a smoking cessation aid, as well as the potential benefits of tailored behavioral support for individuals attempting to quit smoking. Further studies are required to compare smoking cessation medicines and report safety data to better tailor support for successful quitting.
