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Smoking cessation relapse prevention — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareSmoking cessation relapse preventionUSMLE Step 3

A 48-year-old woman quit smoking 6 weeks ago using varenicline and counseling. She has occasional cravings when driving home from work but has not smoked. Sleep is normal and mood is stable. She asks what to do next. Which of the following would you recommend at the follow-up visit?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Continue medication and plan coping strategies for triggers

Continuing evidence-based pharmacotherapy and behavioral relapse-prevention strategies supports sustained tobacco abstinence.

Reference: USPSTF tobacco cessation recommendation: https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/