What is the primary goal of pharmacotherapy in smoking cessation?

The primary goal of pharmacotherapy in smoking cessation is to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and cravings. When individuals decide to quit smoking, they often experience a range of withdrawal symptoms due to the absence of nicotine, which is highly addictive. Pharmacotherapy, including the use of nicotine replacement therapies (such as patches or gum) and non-nicotine medications (like varenicline or bupropion), aims to reduce these withdrawal symptoms and cravings. This support makes it easier for individuals to manage the psychological and physiological aspects of quitting, thereby increasing the likelihood of successful cessation. By focusing on mitigating discomfort and cravings, pharmacotherapy helps sustain motivation and adheres to a quit plan, ultimately leading to improved outcomes in smoking cessation efforts.