Stop Smoking Using a Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Nicotine Replacement Therapy is the process of replacing your nicotine intake from cigarettes with another source. Some people can quit smoking cold turkey and deal with the withdrawal symptoms through sheer willpower and focus. Many others need to ease themselves away from their nicotine habit and this is where NRT comes in. It allows you to quit smoking using "baby steps" instead of gigantic leaps of faith.
There are several different types of NRT available:
This is available in different strengths (and flavors) depending how much you smoke. The gum is chewed in stages to allow the nicotine to be released into your blood stream the same as it is with cigarettes. There is a standard maximum dose of 15 pieces of gum per day.
These patches are available in 21mg, 14mg and 7mg versions depending on how heavily addicted you are to nicotine. Normally these patches are only worn for 16 hours during the day and removed at night. Treatment lasts for a maximum of 90 days only without further professional medical approval.
Inhalator
An inhalator is cigarette shaped object through which you can "inhale" nicotine whilst also dealing with the oral fixation most smokers have. This satisfies both your need for physical smoking and the nicotine dependency as well.
This is the strongest form of NRT and delivers almost instant relief to cravings. Working like a normal nasal applicator the nicotine is sprayed into the nostril for relief. All nasal sprays have a limit of 40 applications per day, doses higher than this are not recommended without a doctor's approval.
Microtab
These are tiny tablets that are placed underneath the tongue and then slowly dissolved. As the microtab dissolves, the nicotine is absorbed through the mouth. There is a maximum of 2 tablets per hour and using microtabs for more than 180 days is not recommended.
Lozenge
The NTR lozenge is similar to NRT gum but it's sucked on rather than chewed. The slow sucking gives your body a steady release of nicotine to help you overcome your cravings.
Whichever NRT you choose, it's recommended to sit down with your family doctor first to discuss your previous medical history since many NRTs have potential side effects and could conflict with medications you're currently taking.
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