The Journal of cardiovascular nursing
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Second-hand smoke (SHS) increases the risk of heart disease by approximately 30% in nonsmokers. Recent evidence from cities that have implemented 100% smoke-free laws has shown that myocardial infarction admissions rapidly declined after law implementation. This decline is, in part, explained by the acute and substantial cardiovascular effects of SHS, many of which are rapid and nearly as large as smoking. ⋯ These effects are, on average, 80% to 90% that of chronic active smoking. However, cardiovascular function is partially recovered after SHS exposure ends. Given the evidence, cardiovascular nurses should advise their patients and relatives to avoid SHS exposure and demand smoke-free workplaces and homes.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Comparative Study
Smoking cessation efficacy and safety of varenicline, an alpha4beta2 nicotinic receptor partial agonist.
Varenicline, an alpha4beta2 nicotinic receptor partial agonist, has the potential to relieve nicotine craving and withdrawal symptoms while reducing the reinforcing effects of nicotine. Phase 3 studies have evaluated the effects of varenicline on inducing smoking cessation and maintaining smoking abstinence. ⋯ The results of these studies demonstrate a new order of efficacy in medical therapy for smoking cessation. Varenicline proved to be more effective than bupropion in inducing cessation. Furthermore, varenicline prevented relapse in smokers who had progressed toward cessation by quitting for at least 1 week.