Easing Nicotine Withdrawal

If you're trying to quit smoking, consider trying a nicotine replacement product that helps wean you off of the addictive substance in tobacco. There are a variety of nicotine replacement products, all of which deliver small, steady doses of the drug into the body to help relieve the withdrawal symptoms that make it so hard to quit. Here is more information:

• The nicotine patch, which is available without a prescription, supplies a steady amount of nicotine to the body through the skin. The patch comes in varying strengths as an 8-week smoking cessation treatment. Nicotine doses are gradually lowered as the treatment progresses. The nicotine patch may not be a good choice for people with skin problems or allergies to adhesive tape.
• Nicotine gum is available over the counter in 2 mg and 4 mg strengths. Chewing nicotine gum releases nicotine into the bloodstream through the lining of the mouth. Nicotine gum might not be appropriate for people with temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ) or for those with dentures or other dental work such as bridges.
• Nicotine nasal spray was approved by the FDA in 1996 for use by prescription only. The spray comes in a pump bottle that you can inhale whenever you have an urge to smoke. This product is not recommended for people with nasal or sinus conditions, allergies, or asthma, nor is it recommended for young tobacco users.
• A nicotine inhaler, also available only by prescription, was approved by the FDA in 1997. This device delivers a vaporized form of nicotine to the mouth through a mouthpiece attached to a plastic cartridge. Even though it is called an inhaler, the device does not deliver nicotine to the lungs the way a cigarette does. Most of the nicotine only travels to the mouth and throat, where it is absorbed through the mucous membranes. Common side effects include throat and mouth irritation and coughing. Anyone with a bronchial problem such as asthma should use it with caution.

The four forms — patches, gum, nasal spray, and inhalers — seem to be equally effective. There is evidence that combining the nicotine patch with nicotine gum or nicotine nasal spray increases long-term quit rates compared with using a single type of nicotine replacement therapy. Nicotine gum, in combination with nicotine patch therapy, may also reduce withdrawal symptoms better than either medication alone. Researchers recommend combining nicotine replacement therapy with advice or counseling from a doctor, dentist, pharmacist, or other health provider.

Source: EverydayHealth.com