Does Laser Therapy for Smoking Cessation Really Work? Experts Weigh In

By Your Health Magazine

Quitting smoking is tough. Many look for alternative methods. One option is laser therapy. But does it work? Experts share their views.

What Is Laser Therapy for Smoking Cessation?

Laser therapy uses low-level lasers on body points. Practitioners claim it reduces cravings. Light is used instead of needles in this method, which is similar to acupuncture. It’s not painful and won’t hurt you.

How Laser Therapy Works

Therapists focus on addiction-related areas. These include the ears, nose, and hands. The goal is to boost endorphins. Endorphins help ease withdrawal symptoms. Supporters say this makes quitting easier.

Scientific Basis of Laser Therapy

Research on laser therapy is limited. A study in the Journal of Complementary and Integrative Medicine found laser acupuncture helped reduce nicotine dependence. But experts stress the need for more research.

(Source: PMC.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV)

Expert Opinions on Laser Therapy

Many medical professionals remain skeptical. The British Columbia Ministry of Health does not approve laser therapy for smoking cessation. Instead, they support nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), varenicline, and bupropion.

(Source: WWW2.GOV.BC.CA)

Research Findings

Studies show mixed results. Some say laser therapy reduces cravings. Others find no difference. A Cochrane review found no solid evidence supporting laser therapy over other methods.

(Source: PMC.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV)

Comparing Laser Therapy to Other Methods

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

NRT includes patches, gum, and lozenges. These have high success rates. Health Canada recognizes them as effective. Laser therapy lacks strong evidence.

(Source: WWW2.GOV.BC.CA)

Prescription Medications

Drugs like varenicline (Champix) and bupropion (Zyban) help reduce cravings. Clinical trials support their effectiveness. Doctors often recommend these over laser therapy.

(Source: WWW2.GOV.BC.CA)

Behavioral Therapies

Support groups and counseling help with addiction. Studies show higher quit rates when combined with NRT or medication. Laser therapy does not offer behavioral support. Experts suggest pairing it with other treatments.

Pros and Cons of Laser Therapy

Pros:

Non-invasive and painless.
No major side effects.
Some users report fewer cravings.

Cons:

Limited scientific proof.
Not widely approved by health experts.
High cost, often not covered by insurance.
Results vary from person to person.

Cost of Laser Therapy in Canada

A single session costs between $200 and $400. Some clinics suggest multiple sessions. Most insurance plans do not cover laser therapy. This makes it pricier than other options.

Success and Limitations

Some smokers say laser therapy helped them quit. Others report no benefits. Results depend on individual factors. Experts suggest using multiple strategies for better success.

Should You Try Laser Therapy?

Laser therapy may help some, but results are mixed. It lacks strong scientific backing. Experts recommend NRT, medication, and counseling first. Speak with a healthcare provider like centresstop before choosing a treatment.

Final Thoughts

Laser therapy is a non-invasive option for quitting smoking. Some claim it helps. But research remains inconclusive. Traditional methods remain the best-proven approach. If you try laser therapy, combine it with other strategies for better results.