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The nicotine in cigarettes leads to actual physical dependence, which can cause unpleasant symptoms when a person tries to quit. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) helps relieve some of the withdrawal symptoms and provides nicotine without the other harmful chemicals in tobacco.
There are several nicotine replacement products currently available over-the-counter in the UK. There is not much difference in how well the different types of NRT work. Personal preference usually determines which one to use. Below are listed some points about each form of Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). Please note, this is just a brief overview.
Non Prescription
Nicotine gum: Two strengths are available - 2mg and 4mg. You need about 12-15 pieces of gum per day to start with (about one per hour). To release the nicotine, chew the gum slowly until the taste is strong. Then rest it between the cheek and the gum to allow absorption of nicotine into the bloodstream.
The disadvantage of gum is that some people do not like the taste, or always having something in their mouth. Gum is not suitable if you wear dentures.
Nicotine patches: The patches are similar to adhesive bandages and are available in different shapes and sizes. Patches are discreet, and easy to apply.A larger patch delivers more nicotine through the skin. Some patches last 16 hours, which you wear only when you are awake. Other types last 24 hours, and you wear these the whole time. The 24 hour patch may disturb sleep, but is thought to help with early morning craving for nicotine.
The disadvantage of patches is that a steady amount of nicotine is delivered. This does not mimic the alternate high and low levels of nicotine when you smoke, or with chewing nicotine gum. Skin irritation beneath the patch occurs in some users.
Nicotine tablets / lozenges: Nicotine lozenge comes in the form of a hard candy, and releases nicotine as it slowly dissolves in the mouth. Biting or chewing the lozenge will cause more nicotine to be swallowed quickly and result in indigestion and/or heartburn. Nicotine lozenge is available in 2mg or 4mg doses. One lozenge is one dose; maximum dosage should not exceed 20 lozenges per day.
The most common side effects of lozenge use are: Soreness of the teeth and gums, indigestion and throat irritation
Prescription Only
Nicotine inhaler: Although similar in appearance to a cigarette, the inhaler delivers nicotine into the mouth, not the lung, and enters the body much more slowly than the nicotine in cigarettes. Nicotine cartridges are inserted into it, and inhaled in an action similar to smoking.
Each cartridge provides up to three 20 minute sessions. You should use about 6-12 cartridges a day for eight weeks, and then gradually reduce over four further weeks. It is particularly suitable if you miss the hand-to-mouth movements of smoking.
Nicotine nasal spray
Nicotine is rapidly absorbed through the nasal membranes and reaches the
bloodstream faster than any other NRT product, giving a rapid nicotine "hit".
This form of NRT most closely mimics the rapid increase in nicotine level that
you get from smoking cigarettes. This may help to relieve sudden surges of
craving.
Side-effects such as nose and throat irritation, coughing, and watering eyes occur in about 1 in 3 users. As the nasal spray may cause sneezing and watering eyes for a short time after use, do not use it whilst driving.
Champix is a non-nicotine therapy for quitting smoking. To find out more about how Champix can help you click here