Nicotine replacement
People smoke for the nicotine hit, not for the damage it does to their health. Nicotine Replacement Therapy is a way of delivering the same kind of hit, while cutting out the tar and other poisonous chemicals.
Is there a catch?
Nicotine raises blood pressure, which means pregnant women, nursing mothers or anyone suffering from circulation problems should avoid any form of NRT. Also be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions and never exceed the recommended use. Otherwise you could end up boosting your nicotine intake, and making your bid to quit even harder!
Where can I get hold of it?
Most forms of NRT are available from chemists, but you have to be 18 or over before you can give it a try. Clinically proven to help reduce the number of cigarettes smoked, NRT is available in a number of different forms:
Nicotine patches
They look like sticking plasters, and serve to heal your nicotine craving. Each one contains a small amount of the drug, which is absorbed steadily and slowly through the skin. As a result it's not going to help you beat a sudden craving, but it should help take the edge off the whole withdrawal process.
- Generally, one nicotine patch lasts either 16 or 24 hours.
- Experts recommend a three month course for maximum effectiveness.
- At the same time, aim to reduce the rate at which you get through patches.
Nicotine gum
NRT gum is most effective at beating off any sudden desire to spark up. The hit is faster-acting than patches, as the nicotine is released through the mouth and swiftly absorbed into the bloodstream.
- NRT chewy is available in different strengths
- Experts recommend chewing through no more than 10 -15 pieces a day, and then slowly cutting out the habit over a period of three months.
- Go easy on the gum - over-zealous chewing lead to feelings of nausea or dizziness.
Nicotine inhalator
An appealing method if you miss the cigarette as much as the smoking. Nicotine inhalators are plastic, and look like cigarette holders. A nicotine capsule can be fitted inside, which releases a hit whenever you inhale on the mouthpiece.
- Nicotine inhalators deliver 1/10th of the nicotine you get from a hit on a cigarette.
- Many users are drawn to the inhalator because they miss having a ciggie in their hand.
- It is advisable to use no more than 15 cartridges a day, and gradually withdraw over a three month period. If in doubt, see your GP.
Nicotine nasal spray
A squirt of this stuff into your nostril is a fast and effective way of satisfying a craving. It basically releases a spray of nicotine, and this is absorbed through the membranes inside your nose.
- NRT nasal spray is only available on prescription.
- Experts recommend spraying about 10-15 times each day, and then easing off over a three month period.
- Some users have reported side effects such as a peppery sensation at the back of the throat, along with some coughing and sneezing.
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