Stop Smoking

What are the dangers of Smoking?

Smoking is associated with a range of dangers to one’s health. It is estimated smoking causes around 22% of the deaths in men and around 16% of deaths in women across the UK. There has been increased pressure in recent years for smokers to quit the addictive habit as government legislations have been introduced making it more difficult for people to start smoking and causing inconvenience to existing smokers.

Why stop smoking?

There are various health benefits of stopping smoking, including improving fertility, reducing stress levels, minimising the risk of serious illness and extending life expectancy. Non-smokers also generally have more youthful looking skin, healthier teeth and fresher breath. By quitting smoking, there is likely to be a significant financial gain experienced as the habit has been estimated to cost smokers up to £3000 a year.

Can I stop smoking with treatment if I am pregnant?

It is strongly advised to quit smoking if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. This can be more difficult during pregnancy as medication such as Champix is not recommended for pregnant women. Have a look at these NHS resources for more help: 

• NHS quit smoking tips
• NHS stop smoking services
• NHS stop smoking home page

How can you quit using medicine?

It can be extremely difficult for smokers to stop smoking without the support of medication to increase the chance of success.

Champix tablets are a prescription medication which help to relieve cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms resulting from quitting. They also remove any enjoyment previously experienced when smoking, if you smoke a cigarette during treatment after your quit date.

Champix tablets are taken daily for 12 weeks with a specific planned dosage for each week of treatment. It may be necessary to alter the dose during treatment as the effects of stopping smoking can influence the performance of the tablets.

Is there any harm if i smoke only a few per day?

Almost 1 in 3 smokers will smoke less than 10 cigarettes a days and assume it is less dangerous compared to heavy smokers. Research shows the risk of heart disease comes from smoking only a few every day.

Where can I find help to quit smoking?

• View our stop smoking range
• NHS quit smoking tips
• NHS stop smoking services
• NHS stop smoking home page

Please refer to the Champix patient information leaflet for a complete list of side effects.

Common side effects associated with the use of Champix tablets include headache, nausea, vomiting, difficulty sleeping and increased or decreased appetite.

Less commonly, Champix tablets can cause mood disturbances, conjunctivitis, increased blood pressure, sinus inflammation, frequent urination and flu symptoms.

Rare side effects of using Champix include excessive thirst, throat pain, stiff joints, disturbed vision and irregular heartbeat.

Champix can cause dizziness and tiredness and may increase the effects of alcohol.