Rx Note

Introduction Smoking represents the single greatest cause of preventable illness and premature death worldwide. The risks of most harms from tobacco smoking correlate with cumulative exposure. Hundreds of compounds have been identified in tobacco smoke; however, only 3 compounds are of real clinical importance: Tar-based products, which have carcinogenic properties. Carbon monoxide, which reduces the oxygen-carrying capacity of the red blood cells. Nicotine, which produces dependence by activation of dopaminergic systems. Stopping Smoking Health benefits from smoking cessation are well documented and quitting smoking before 35 years of age avoids almost all excess risk for developing smoking-related diseases. Stopping smoking often causes unpleasant withdrawal effects (craving, anxiety, irritability, restlessness, poor concentration, light-headedness, hunger) . These symptoms may begin within a few hours of the last cigarette, peak after a few days and rarely last >1 month. NOTE:...