Since the introduction of nicotine into Europe by the Spaniards in the 1700's, there has been little that medical science has had to offer for effectively dealing with nicotine addiction. These attempted control devices have included hypnosis, acupuncture, aversion therapy, nicotine replacement systems, antidepressants and a variety of herbal solutions. All of these have had little, if any, therapeutic efficacy and recidivism has been generally high.
The challenge with nicotine addiction is that the psychological side is reinforced by the physical need for nicotine. Rational thought is compromised when physical cravings occur. This comes about by nicotine's interference with certain nerve transmitters. Nicotine is similar chemically to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. When nicotine competes for receptor sites, the body tries to overcome this phenomenon through the process of tolerance.
Our clinics are medical facilities dedicated exclusively to the treatment of Tobacco Dependency Disorder. A team of specially trained physicians and healthcare professionals use the latest and most effective smoking cessation techniques available to help patients overcome the smoking habit.
Unlike nicotine-based smoking cessation products such as the patch or gum that keep putting highly addictive nicotine back into the smoker's body, our Anticholinergic Block Method replaces the effect that nicotine has in the body and allows the body's chemistry to revert back to that of a non smoker. Our philosophy is that it is difficult enough to break the addiction cycle without introducing more nicotine into the body. So, rather than using toxic nicotine, We break the addiction cycle by using non-addictive and medically safe medications (i.e., atropine & scopolamine) that block nicotine receptor sites and are easily administered in one session
The urge and temptation to continue smoking often remain strong while using other treatment methods involving pills, patches and pharmaceuticals. It is the chemically based withdrawal symptoms of lightheadedness, irritability and cravings that weaken a smoker's resolve to quit. By blocking nicotine receptor sites, our Anticholinergic Block Method virtually eliminates these tormenting withdrawal symptoms, giving the smoker who wants to quit a better than eight
out of ten chance of succeeding. This puts our approach head and shoulders above any over-the-counter or other prescribed medication.
Our clinics use a streamlined behavioral modification approach as part of its program. The specific steps have been developed over 15 years and combine the best components of many standard behavioral practices. This strategy was developed uniquely for smoking cessation. It is easy for patients to understand and apply in their everyday lives. The results are patients that actually enjoy becoming non-smokers.
It is a combination of eliminating the desire for nicotine and replacing the emotional habit that makes our treatment indispensable for patients who are serious about quitting smoking. Statistically, this treatment protocol has the highest rate of success with the lowest rate of recidivism.