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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Therapy For Depression Caused After Quitting Smoking

I quit smoking in January using the patch. However everytime I quit smoking (this is my 3rd time trying) about 3 months into it I get very depressed, don't feel myself and just plain want to smoke again. I have also put on weight and this bothers me as summer is approaching. Do not know if I can continue not smoking plus try to loose the additional weight!
Mon, 24 Nov 2014
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Psychiatrist 's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from Health Care Magic

It is common to develop delayed depressive symptoms, anxiety and increased craving even after months of cessation of smoking in a chronic smoker. This is also called as protracted withdrawal. You have passed acute phase of withdrawal by use of nicotine patch but still protracted withdrawal symptoms are causing craving, want for smoker again. I would advise you to consult a Psychiatrist again for proper treatment of this anxiety. Commonly Bupropion, Buspirone are the drugs which are used in smoking cessation to reduce anxiety and craving. Varenicline is also an another option. The drug should be taken for long term basis and will result in reducing anxiety. Visit a psychiatrist for details of prescription of these drugs.

Try relaxation exercises and yoga to keep yourself relaxed.

Thanks, hope this helps you
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Suggest Therapy For Depression Caused After Quitting Smoking

Hello thanks for asking from Health Care Magic It is common to develop delayed depressive symptoms, anxiety and increased craving even after months of cessation of smoking in a chronic smoker. This is also called as protracted withdrawal. You have passed acute phase of withdrawal by use of nicotine patch but still protracted withdrawal symptoms are causing craving, want for smoker again. I would advise you to consult a Psychiatrist again for proper treatment of this anxiety. Commonly Bupropion, Buspirone are the drugs which are used in smoking cessation to reduce anxiety and craving. Varenicline is also an another option. The drug should be taken for long term basis and will result in reducing anxiety. Visit a psychiatrist for details of prescription of these drugs. Try relaxation exercises and yoga to keep yourself relaxed. Thanks, hope this helps you