Nicotine Replacement Therapy

The patches deliver a constant dosage of nicotine to the body 24 hours a day.  They are available in different strengths depending on the users needs.  It is usually advised to use the higher dose for a period of time and gradually reduce the strength of the patch as your body adjusts to receiving less nicotine per 24 hour period.

Patches can be placed anywhere on the body and therefore hidden under your clothing.  They come with pamphlets describing the most effective way of using them.  You should not smoke while using patches - this obviously negates the benefits of using them and you may overdose on nicotine. 

The patch delivers a constant low dose of nicotine which helps to reduce your cravings to smoke.  However, many smokers find that they still need to have something in their hand and mouth to feel satisfied.  It is therefore wise to combine nicotine replacement therapy with other methods to support your efforts.  There are telephone counselling lines for smokers (ie Quit Line), other therapies such as acupuncture, naturopathic remedies, behavioural modification and hypnotherapy.  This holisitic approach is advised as smoking is a difficult habit to break and one method on it's own is unlikely to work for you.

Common Side Effects:

• skin irritation
• dizziness
• racing heartbeat
• sleep problems
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• muscle aches and stiffness

2. Gum

Nicotine Gum is also available in different strengths and can assist in reducing nicotine withdrawal symptons if used correctly.  It is not designed to be chewed constantly as you would a normal gum.  The nicotine is released when chewed and then placed between your cheek and gum to allow it to be absorbed into the bloodstream.  If you continue to chew the gum, all the nicotine will be swallowed (which can cause stomach upsets) instead of entering the bloodstream.

Common Side Effects:

• A bad taste from the gum
• A tingling feeling on the tongue while chewing the gum
• Hiccups
• Upset stomach (nausea) or heartburn
• Jaw pain caused by chewing

3. Nasal Sprays

These are used the same way as any nasal spray.  They deliver a fine mist into each nostril allowing the nicotine to be absorbed through the nasal lining.  Nicotine Nasal Sprays are only available by prescription.

Common Side Effects:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Coughing

4. Lozenge

The lozenge is available in different strengths and is designed to be dissolved slowly in the mouth.  The nicotine is released over a period of about half an hour as the lozenge dissolves and is absorbed through the lining of the mouth.  If the lozenge is chewed the nicotine is released into the saliva and enters the stomach.  This can cause indigestion and/or heartburn.  Lozengers should not be used for longer than 12 weeks.

Common Side Effects:

• Soreness of the teeth and gums
• Indigestion
• Throat irritation
• Hiccups
• Heartburn
• Headache

5. Inhaler

Only available by prescription, the inhaler delivers nicotine orally by puffing for about 20 minutes.  It is similar in appearance to a cigarette and used only when the urge for a cigarette is at it's strongest.

Common Side Effects:

• Cough
• Irritation of the throat and mouth
• Upset stomach