MUSC's Center for Drug and Alcohol Program (CDAP) offers a new Quit Smoking Program that combines prescription medication and behavior therapy. All treatment components are based on state-of-the-art research and have been shown to be highly effective.

The FDA has recently approved Zyban as the first non-nicotine medication for smoking cessation. This medication works on the brain mechanisms involved in nicotine addiction itself, reducing both withdrawal symptoms and cravings to smoke. Though it is not required that program participants receive this medication, the combination of medication and behavioral counseling has been shown to be the most effective approach to smoking cessation.

Behavioral management strategies are taught in small groups led by an addiction specialist. The emphasis is on withdrawal management and coping with urges and craving to smoke. New groups begin monthly.

For more information, call 792-9888.