Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
How does NRT work?
NRT works by getting nicotine into your system without the tar, carbon monoxide and other poisonous chemicals you get from tobacco smoke. It is these chemicals in tobacco that are most harmful, but it's the nicotine that's addictive. So, while you're becoming a non-smoker, you can still get nicotine from NRT - without the risk of cancer or heart disease. Once you're comfortable not smoking, you can cut out the NRT, gradually if necessary.
What products are available?
Several different types are available:
- Nicotine patches
Available in different doses - if you smoke 10 a day of more, start with the higher dose. Patches are extremely convenient but you can't control the dose (e.g. to get more nicotine quickly when the craving is particularly strong). - Nicotine gum
Chew this gum whenever you feel a craving. Start with the 2mg gum. If you still experience severe craving and withdrawal, try the stronger gum. The taste can be unpleasant at first but for most people this only lasts a week or so. - Inhalator
A plastic holder with nicotine cartridges that you put on the end. You draw on it like a cigarette and nicotine passes into your mouth. - Tablets
Placing small tablets under your tongue allows nicotine to be absorbed through the lining of you mouth. Don't chew or swallow the tablets. - Lozenges
As with tablets the nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth. - Nicotine nasal spray
You can absorb nicotine through the nose more quickly than with the gum or the patch, but it takes more getting used to, and can irritate the nose. Only available on prescription.
Where would I buy NRT products from?
Most products are available over the counter from your pharmacist, or through your doctor on prescription. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice, and choose whichever product suits you best.
Is NRT safe?
NRT is much safer and much less addictive than cigarettes. Don't worry about using it too much - you can't overdose on it. Just follow the instructions on the packet.
Does NRT work?
If you want to stop smoking, any method can help. If you don't want to stop, no method will help. NRT really does work. All the products have been scientifically tested and results show they can double your chances of stopping - as long as you follow the instructions on the packet carefully. NRT isn't a magic cure but it will reduce the withdrawal symptoms and cravings while you are stopping. But remember, NRT isn't meant to feel the same as smoking - it's meant to help you stop.
Is NRT for me?
If you smoke within 30 minutes of waking up in the morning, then you could really benefit from nicotine replacement therapy.
However you must ask your doctor or consultant beforehand if you:
- have a medical condition or health concern
- have had a recent heart attack, other cardiovascular event, or suffer from unstable angina
- are pregnant.
If you have tried to give up smoking before, but the cravings have got the better of you, then it could well be that NRT could help you to quit.
What if I start smoking again whilst I'm using NRT?
If you start smoking again, you must stop using NRT.
Can you get Non-Nicotine Smoking Cessation Aids?
Yes - there are lots of different varieties of Non-Nicotine Smoking Cessation Aids available. Some are more effective than others.
- Zyban
Zyban tablets are a non-nicotine treatment, which are available on prescription only. Zyban helps to break the addiction to nicotine by working in the brain to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings for cigarettes. Research suggests that use of Zyban doubles your chances of success of quitting smoking.
There are also many other Non Nicotine Smoking Cessation Aids on the market that have not been the subject of clinical trials meaning there is not enough good scientific evidence to say how effective they are. They are available in the form of capsules, dummy cigarettes, herbal cigarettes, filters, mouthwash and alternative therapies such as hypnotherapy and acupuncture.
It is important to check whether the product is safe and effective before you spend your time, energy and money. Be wary of claims of very high success rates. There are no magic solutions.
Contacts
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Some information on this page taken, with permission, from "Smoking: Giving Up For Life" produced by The National Assembly for Wales
