Using Nicotine Replacement Therapy
There are 6 types of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): gum, patches, spray, inhalator, tablet and lozenge. New products are constantly being developed. The type you use is a matter of personal preference. If you are able to use it, NRT has been found to double your chances of successfully quitting smoking. NRT is now available on prescription from your doctor.
For pregnant smokers, smokers with heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, and stomach ulcers or people who have had a stroke, it is not recommended that they use NRT (unless under medical supervision).
NRT reduces the physical craving to smoke by supplying the body with nicotine. It does not, however, prevent the psychological desire to smoke.
If you use NRT and smoke, you may feel sick as a result of having too much nicotine in your body. The purpose of using NRT is usually recommended over an 8 - 12 week period depending on the product. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Nicotine Chewing Gum - Nicotine is absorbed through the mouth (only for 18's or over)
Available in two strengths, 2mg and 4mg, and in a range of flavours - plain, mint or fruit. Each piece of gum is chewed for a couple of minutes, very slowly, and then rested between the teeth and upper mouth to help absorption of the nicotine into the body. each piece lasts for 20 - 30 minutes.
Nicotine Patches - Nicotine is absorbed through the skin (only for 18's or over)
Available in high, medium and low nicotine strengths, depending on how much you smoke. Patches are available in a slow release 24 hour or 116 hour patches (which you take off before bed). Both are equally effective. If you are allergic to sticking plasters you may be allergic to the adhesive on the patches.
Nicotine Inhalator - Nicotine is absorbed through the mouth (only for 18's or over)
The inhalator comes with capsules containing nicotine. the nicotine is absorbed through the cheek lining and therefore should not be inhaled deeply. You should suck gently on the mouthpiece as inhaling deeply can cause discomfort at the back of the throat. use whenever you might have normally smoked. some people like this product because it repeats the hand to mouth action of smoking.
Nicotine Microtab - Nicotine is absorbed through the mouth (only for 18's or over)
These are are nicotine-containing tablets and are placed under the tongue where they dissolve. one Microtab contains 2mg of nicotine. The dosing instructions suggest one Microtab when you would have had a cigarette. the Microtab has a very strong taste.
Nicotine Lozenge - Nicotine is absorbed through the mouth (only for 18's or over)
This is similar to a sweet. it is sucked and then rested between the teeth and upper mouth to help the absorption of nicotine into the body. Available in 'mint' flavour.
Nicotine Nasal Spray - Nicotine is absorbed through the nose (only for 16's or over)
This product has the highest success rate (according to clinical trails) because it is the only one that mimics the nicotine 'hit' of a cigarette. The spray is only available on a private prescription from your GP. It is sprayed into your nostrils when you experience a desire to smoke. Some people may experience a runny nose.
Combination Therapy
Research suggests that using the patches and spray together can improve your success rate.
Zyban
Zyban or buprobion hydrochloride SR is a tablet that has been used in the US to treat depression. Zyban is the first non-nicotine, prescription medicine for use in smoking cessation and is only available from your GP. However your GP may refer you to your local Smoking Cessation Service to assess your suitability for Zyban and to offer you advice and support for your quit attempt. the Smoking Cessation Service will only assess your suitability to Zyban based upon your motivation to stop smoking. Your GP has the final decision as to whether you are suitable to use Zyban.
Common Side Effects
Dry mouth Insomnia Headaches Upset Stomach