Stop Smoking Injections
The stop smoking injections (also called the stop smoking shot) have become a popular choice in recent years. There are two different shots being administered by doctors. Thought all of the medications are FDA approved, none are currently approved for adult smoking cessation.
General Information
One of the common stop smoking shots is made of two medicines called Scopolamine (a motion sickness medication) and Atarax (an antihistamine) administered together in one shot. The two medicines together are to block the receptors in the brain from the nicotine and lessen the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking. This is then typically followed up with scopolamine patches and other orally administered medications for two to three weeks to help continue the nicotine block.
The other common stop smoking shot is made of Scopolamine (a motion sickness medication) and Atropine (an anesthesia medication). Both Scopolamine and Atropine are both in family of drugs called anticholinergics which block the neurotransmitter acetylcholine lessening the withdrawal symptoms.
The shots are given in three places – one behind each ear and one in the hip area.
Overall Review
As with any smoking cessation plan, you need to review the information fully prior to deciding if this is the best option for you. Please careful review creditably of all individuals offering stop smoking shots. You may want to discuss this option with your own physician who knows your medical history before going to another doctor who focuses on these types of injections. Most likely prior to undergoing the shot(s), you will be screened for existing conditions that could exclude you from the injections including high blood pressure and heart conditions (in some cased an EKG may also be required).
The success rates for both injections are listed as 80% after the first month and 40% at the end of one year. Most of the physicians and clinics offering the stop smoking shots also include a year long follow-up program to help you remain a non-smoker. The costs for this varies from $300-$1500 depending on where in the country you live and who provided the shots.
Side Effects
With neither of the stop smoking injections being FDA approved, the possible side effects are hard to pin. The general side effect tend to be headache, nausea, dizziness, and lethargic for the first 24-48 hours. Many of the physicians offering the stop smoking injections also require someone else to drive you home from the appointment and working the next day is also not suggested.
In the end, choose what is right for you and your body even if it is not the stop smoking injections– your health depends on it.
For more information on other stop smoking medications, therapies and programs – click on any of the links below.
Stop Smoking Medications
A review of two FDA approved smoking cessation medications – Zyban and Chantix- including their use, success rates, how they work, and possible side effects.
Stop Smoking Inhaler and Nasal Spray
A review of the FDA approved stop smoking inhaler and nasal spray including how and why they work, who they are best for and possible side effects.
Acupuncture to Stop Smoking - A Natural Aid
A review of acupuncture to stop smoking including how it works, how much it cost, how long it takes and resources to find a licensed acupuncturist.
Stop Smoking Patches, Gum and Lozenges
A review of three common NRT (Nicotine Replacement Therapies) for smoking cessation including stop smoking patches, gum, and lozenges. We review general information, costs, success rates, and possible side effects.
Stop Smoking Laser Treatments
Is it right for you? How does it work, how long does it take, how much does it cost, what are the success rates and what are the side effects.
Learn to Stop Smoking
Why you should stop, breaking the habit, the physiological and psychological addictions, symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and medication and programs that are available.
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