Alternative Therapies

Members,

There are many methods that we call "alternative methods." We call them alternative therapies because there is very little scientific evidence about their effectiveness. The methods listed below make many (and often conflicting) claims about how they help people quit.

These strategies do work for some people. If you want to try one of these, we strongly recommend that you also follow the proven steps to quitting, such as those found in this program. We also recommend consulting your doctor.

Herbal Products

What are they? There are several herbal products, usually in pill form, that claim to help people quit.

How do they work? Products may make unclear claims to cleanse the system and offer relaxation. Sometimes they are combined with a relaxation tape.

What else should I know? Call your local health department or talk to your pharmacist about the contents of herbal products beforehand. Unlike herbal products, drugs like NRTs must pass government approvals before consumer use.

Some companies base their claims of success on their volume of product sales. These are false claims because they have no way of knowing if anyone who purchased their product actually quit smoking.

Acupuncture / Acupressure

What is it? Acupuncture and acupressure are based on the Asian science of connections in the body. Nerve endings located near the surface of the skin are said to be connected to certain organs and functions in your body. Pins are inserted (acupuncture) or pressure is applied (acupressure) to these strategic points on the body (e.g., ears, nose and wrists).

How does it work? The procedure is relatively painless. The procedure may help with relaxation and withdrawal symptoms.

What else should I know? Your chance of quitting with acupuncture increases the more often you get treatments, as does the cost. Acupuncture and acupressure may or may not be effective for you.

Laser Therapy

What is it? Much like acupuncture, a painless laser is aimed at a number of strategic points on the body. The treatment usually takes three sessions of less than 15 minutes each.

How does it work? The procedure may help with relaxation and withdrawal symptoms.

Hypnosis

What is it? Hypnosis therapy is designed to help you focus on your nicotine consumption patterns and to change your attitudes about smoking or chewing in ways that will help you quit. Hypnosis often involves 1 to 4 hour sessions and may include the development of a personal program tape to use at home after or in between sessions.

How does it work? While you are hypnotized, the therapist gives you suggestions to help you stop your nicotine use. The procedure may help with relaxation and withdrawal symptoms.

What else should I know? Your chances of quitting after just one hypnosis session are low, but may improve with multiple sessions. However, there is little evidence that the hypnotic state helps people quit above and beyond the suggestions provided by the therapist. In addition, hypnosis can be both expensive and time consuming. If you choose this method, be sure to check the costs, time commitment and your therapist's qualifications.

Planning With a Physician or Pharmacist