Nicotine replacement therapy

Patches, gum and more

Nicotine products like patches and gum are often called Nicotine Replacement Therapy, or NRT for short. They help you to deal with nicotine withdrawal cravings, and double your chances of successfully going smokefree.

NRT works differently to cigarettes. It does not contain toxic chemicals like tar or carbon monoxide, and does not cause cancer.

You can get NRT on prescription, so being smokefree doesn't have to be expensive. NRT is suitable for most people, however you should check with your doctor if you are pregnant, have a heart or circulatory condition or if you take regular medication.

Inhalators

Inhalators look like a plastic cigarette. The inhalator releases nicotine vapour which gets absorbed through your mouth and throat. If you miss the habit of smoking these may suit you.

Lozenges

The lozenges are like a sweet that you suck slowly to release the nicotine.

Microtabs

These are small tablets containing nicotine which dissolve quickly under your tongue.

Nicotine gum

When you chew nicotine gum, the nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth.

Nicotine patches

The 16 hour patches work well for most regular smokers. If you usually get up during the night for a cigarette, the 24 hour patch may suit you better.

Nicotine nasal spray

This is the strongest form of NRT. The nicotine is quickly absorbed through the lining of your nose, it's useful if you are getting severe withdrawal symptoms.

Zyban (Bupropion Hydrochloride)

Zyban is a treatment which changes the way that your body responds to nicotine. You start taking Zyban a couple of weeks before you quit and then continue the treatment for a few weeks to help you through the withdrawal cravings. It's only available on prescription and is not available if you are pregnant.