These days, smokers are constantly being bombarded with advertisements, signs and warning labels about the benefits of not smoking. Usually, these clandestine messages serve as a reminder to all smokers that their habits are unhealthy and self detrimental. While smokers are well aware of the health hazards associated with their habits, many are unable to quit, try as they might, and remain stuck in the habit – ultimately giving up and succumbing to the addiction.

Fortunately, with the advancements in medical technology in combination with vast amounts of research of the human brain, nicotine addiction and oral fixation, comes some new hope – a prescription drug called Zyban. The FDA approved Zyban in 1997 and since then it has changed the lives of many smokers. It has given smokers everywhere a true shot at breaking the habit for good.

After decades of research and billions of dollars spent, it has been concluded that the main reason nicotine is so addictive is because our brains actually have tiny little receptors that become stimulated by the drug. Zyban simply blocks the nicotine from reaching the receptors. In many cases it allows the patient to successfully break the habit for good; about 44% of the time.

Smoking doesn’t just harm the user anymore; conclusive tests conducted around the world have shown that second hand smoke kills as well. Most major cities in the U.S. and in most of Europe and Canada have already implemented smoking bans in all businesses, including bars and restaurants. They have also implemented firm and hefty taxes upon all tobacco products to discourage people from smoking.

Even the social smoker faces great risk by continued exposure to the toxic chemicals emitted from inhaling tobacco smoke. Whether they smoke one per day, or one per week, they still are at the same risks as a pack-a-day-smoker. In fact, smokers face more health risks than just about anyone else, even senior citizens.

For many who thought freedom from this costly addiction was a myth, Zyban offers renewed hope. While they do not promise an overnight cure, they do promise a way for smokers everywhere to finally overcome the chemical dependency that will surely kill them one day. But the first step towards quitting still lands in the hands of the smoker, because they must take that conscious step before they can start to enjoy the benefits of not smoking.