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Nicotine Addiction Treatment

Our comprehensive nicotine addiction treatment services are designed to help individuals overcome nicotine dependence and successfully quit smoking or using tobacco products. We provide personalized tobacco cessation treatment plans that combine behavioural therapies with evidence-based medications to address both the physical and psychological aspects of nicotine addiction.

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Understanding Nicotine Addiction

Nicotine addiction, also known as tobacco addiction, is a chronic condition characterized by physical dependence and psychological cravings. Nicotine stimulates specific receptors in the brain, releasing dopamine and creating pleasurable sensations that reinforce tobacco use. Over time, this leads to the development of nicotine dependence and withdrawal symptoms when tobacco use is stopped.

Quit Smoking Today

Our Treatment Approach

At Thrive Medical’s RAAM clinic, care is outpatient and low-barrier. We pair pharmacological support to manage cravings/withdrawal with brief behavioural counselling to build lasting quit strategies for smoking cessation. This dual approach improves long-term success.

Our counselling services focus on helping patients understand triggers, develop coping strategies, and maintain motivation throughout their quit journey. Options include:

  • Brief Individual Counselling

  • Virtual Follow-Ups for accountability between visits

  • Referrals to community/group programs and quit supports when longer-term therapy is needed

These interventions are designed to strengthen smoking cessation efforts, prevent relapse, and provide ongoing encouragement.

We offer and monitor evidence-based medications and over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), including:

  • Nicotine patch (transdermal)

  • Nicotine gum

  • Nicotine lozenge

  • Nicotine nasal spray

  • Nicotine inhaler

  • Bupropion SR

  • Varenicline

These treatments reduce withdrawal and improve quit rates. Coverage varies (e.g., ODB eligibility); we review options during intake.

We adapt care for pregnant patients, adolescents (with appropriate consent), and smokeless-tobacco users. We also screen for mental health concerns and provide short-term support with referrals to specialized services when indicated.

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Benefits of Treating Nicotine Dependence

Treating nicotine dependence delivers powerful benefits for both body and mind. Quitting tobacco lowers the risk of life-threatening illnesses such as lung cancer and heart disease, improves lung function, and extends life expectancy. Beyond physical health, patients often notice clearer thinking, reduced withdrawal symptoms, and a stronger sense of well-being. Effective treatment also supports weight management and eliminates exposure to the thousands of harmful chemicals in tobacco, making smoking cessation a proven step toward long-term health.

Take Control of Your Health

Why Choose Thrive Medical for Nicotine Addiction Treatment?

  • Personalized Treatment Plans: Each recovery plan is tailored to your unique needs, goals, and lifestyle.
  • Evidence-Based Medications: Health Canada–approved options to reduce withdrawal and cravings, monitored by our clinicians.
  • Behavioural & Pharmacological Support: Our combined approach strengthens both the physical and psychological aspects of recovery.
  • OHIP-Covered Services: Eligible patients can access many of our services at no cost.
  • Fit for All Ages: We provide tailored care for adolescents, adults, and older individuals.
  • Convenient Virtual Counselling: Secure online sessions make treatment more flexible and accessible.
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Take the First Step Today

Contact us to schedule an assessment and develop a personalized quit tobacco plan. Our team will guide you through the process of treating nicotine dependence and provide ongoing support to help you quit smoking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common symptoms include irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite, restlessness, depressed mood, and strong nicotine cravings. These symptoms typically begin within hours after quitting and can last for several weeks.

NRT delivers controlled amounts of nicotine to the body through products like patches, gum, lozenges, nasal sprays, or inhalers. This helps reduce cravings by gradually lowering nicotine dependence without exposure to harmful tobacco smoke.

Yes, FDA-approved prescription medications such as bupropion SR and varenicline are generally safe when used under medical supervision. They help reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Patients should discuss their health history with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Behavioural counselling can be effective alone, especially for those with lower nicotine dependence. It equips individuals with coping strategies and relapse prevention skills. However, combining counselling with medication increases the likelihood of successful quitting.

Nicotine withdrawal symptoms usually peak within the first week after quitting and gradually decrease over 2 to 4 weeks. Some symptoms, like cravings or difficulty concentrating, may persist longer but tend to lessen over time.

Yes, many people managed to stop smoking using behavioural therapies, support systems, and strong motivation without medications. However, medications often improve quit rates by easing withdrawal symptoms.

Use distraction techniques such as physical activity, deep breathing, or chewing nicotine gum if under NRT. Behavioural counselling can help develop personalized strategies to manage cravings and avoid triggers.

Yes, adolescents can receive behavioural therapies tailored to their needs. Pharmacological treatments may be used cautiously and based on clinical guidelines.

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