Nicotine replacement therapy, otherwise known as NRT, is a big part of helping you to quit smoking. Products such as nicotine gum and patches are important tools of the process. These items help to minimize the effects of withdrawal, and they double your chances for success.
NRT works differently than cigarettes, in that it does not contain toxic chemicals, only nicotine. Tar and carbon monoxide are found in cigarettes, but they will not be a part of NRT. Some people believe that NRT is expensive, but you can get a prescription for it, so costs are lowered significantly. If you are pregnant or have other health issues, make sure that you consult with your doctor before you start an NRT programme.
Nicotine Gum
Chewing nicotine gum allows you to absorb the nicotine through the lining of your mouth, as opposed to through your lungs.
Nicotine Patches
Regular smokers will find that nicotine patches are unobtrusive, and they can be work for up to 24 hours. They can also be worn when your cravings take hold during the day.
Microtabs
Microtabs are small tablets which contain nicotine. They are designed to dissolve quickly underneath your tongue.
Lozenges
These take roughly 20 to 30 minutes to dissolve, similar to a cough drop.
Nicotine Nasal Sprays
Nasal sprays deliver a shot of nicotine into your nose, where it can be absorbed quickly.
Inhalators
Inhalators look exactly like a cigarette, but they are plastic. When you inhale, the nicotine is absorbed through your mouth and throat. The physical action of lighting a cigarette is a hard habit to break, so these are a great choice.
Other Treatments
Zyban
Zyban alters the way that your body responds to nicotine. It’s only available by prescription, and it should not be used if you are pregnant. It is designed to be taken a couple of weeks before you quit. It is also used periodically when your cravings arise.
Champix
This is a relatively new treatment which is designed to help you stop smoking. Champix (Varenicline) has been approved for use on NHS prescription. The way this treatment works, is it reduces the physical feelings you get from smoking a cigarette, and it also curbs your cravings. Similar to Zyban, it is designed to be taken 2 weeks before your stop smoking date. This treatment typically lasts for 12 weeks.
