Nicotine Replacement Therapy and Products

When the gut-wrenching cravings are too much to handle, nicotine replacement therapy can provide much needed relief – in fact, when used correctly, nicotine replacement can double your chances of quitting!

But are all therapies the same? Are all products effective? There are certain pros and cons to every nicotine delivery method, but you’ll find that the options are more flexible now than ever before.

Popular Nicotine Replacement Therapy Choices

Nicotine Patches

Nicotine transdermal patches come in a variety of strengths for each stage of the quitting process. These products are worn on the skin throughout the day, providing a steady stream of nicotine for worry-free craving reduction. The delayed reaction time prevents users from becoming addicted.

Lozenges and Gum

These nicotine replacement products both provide small doses of nicotine used in 1-2 hour intervals throughout the day. Studies show that the heaviest smokers may find benefit from using lozenges or gum to combat intense cravings in combination with a steady nicotine delivery form like patches.

Nicotine Inhaler or Nasal Spray

These fast-acting nicotine replacement products provide immediate relief for intense cravings. The results are not as instantaneous as with a cigarette, but the speed and efficiency, when abused, can present certain dependency issues in certain patients.

Non-Nicotine Prescriptions

A wide range of prescriptions available to either reduce cravings or relieve symptoms like the depression, anxiety, and fatigue associated with quitting. Your doctor may prescribe a combination of pills, but almost all of them are recommended for use with therapy and support programs.

Therapy and Support Programs

Nicotine replacement therapy is more effective with a solid support network. There is an endless variety of options, including group sessions, cognitive therapy, casual meetings, combination support groups, reward-based competitions, and some that are as simple as teaming up with a good friend who is also quitting.

photo by D.A.K.Photography

If one method doesn’t work for you, just consult your doctor and switch – but do whatever it takes to hold yourself back from a relapse in the meantime.

You may find success with a combination of nicotine delivery methods, community support, and prescribed medications; but you’ll never know until you try!

Nicotine replacement therapy is far more enticing than the side effects of smoking, so why wait?

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