What Products are there to help me Quit Smoking?

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Smoking is a major cause of many diseases. Some of those include:

• Cancer of lung, larynx, mouth, and esophagus
• Coronary heart disease; strokes; chronic bronchitis
• Low bone density; hip fractures
• GERD and Peptic Ulcers

People who smoke may not understand or they may choose to ignore all of the risks listed on the labels of tobacco products. Smokers who do quit can lower their risks of contracting disease caused by smoking and can improve their overall health.

Products to help you quit smoking

Nicotin replacement products and other medications can help you stop smoking. They can not do all the work but they can sure double your chances to quit smoking. Although you can buy some nicotine replacement products without a prescription, it’s best to consult your doctor to decide which product — or combination of products — may be best for you.

1. Patches - Nicoderm, Habitrol and various generic products
   The nicotine patch is a small, self-adhesive patch that slowly releases nicotine into the bloodstream through the outer layer of skin. It can be applied anywhere between the waist and neck — often the upper arm or shoulder. Patches must be replaced every 24 hours.
   he patch may not be appropriate if you have certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis. Don’t smoke while using the patch. Rarely, you may get too much nicotine and experience nausea or dizziness. The patch is often used for eight weeks or longer.
   NicoDerm CQ Stop Smoking Aid, 14 mg, Clear Patch, Step 2, 2 Week Kit 14 patches
2. Lozenges - Commit
   Nicotine lozenges are similar to hard candy. You place them between your gum and cheek and suck them slowly. Each lozenge lasts 20 to 30 minutes. Nicotine lozenges can be used discreetly to quickly satisfy cravings. You can use them as often as needed, up to 20 lozenges a day. They’re available in 2- or 4-milligram doses without a prescription. Nicotine lozenges may stick to dentures or other dental work. They’re not meant to be chewed or swallowed whole. Don’t smoke while using the lozenges. Rarely, you may get too much nicotine and experience nausea or dizziness.
   Commit Stop Smoking Aid, 4 mg, Original Flavor, Lozenges, 108-Count Box
3. Gums - Nicorette and various generic products
   Nicotine gum is made of a special material called polacrilex. To release nicotine from the gum, chew a piece until it has a peppery taste or you notice a tingly sensation in your mouth. Then, to absorb the nicotine, hold the chewed gum between your gum and cheek until the taste or tingly sensation disappears. Chew and hold again to release more nicotine. Repeat the cycle for about 30 minutes, until most of the nicotine has been released from the gum. You can buy it over-the-counter in 2- or 4-milligram doses and chew it as often as needed — up to 24 pieces a day. Nicotine gum is recommended for up to 12 weeks. Nicotine gum may stick to dentures or other dental work. Don’t smoke while using the gum. Rarely, you may get too much nicotine and experience nausea or dizziness.
   Nicorette Nicotine Coated Gum, Fresh Mint, 4mg, 100 Pieces
4. Nicotin Nasal Spray - Nicotrol NS
   Nicotine nasal spray is sprayed inside your nostril. The recommended dose is a spray in each nostril one to five times an hour. The nicotine in nasal spray reaches the bloodstream more quickly and begins working faster than other nicotine replacement products. You control the dose. Side effects often include nasal, sinus and throat irritation. You may also develop watery eyes, sneezing and coughing. Nicotine nasal spray is often used for eight to 12 weeks. Most people use one to two mists an hour at first and gradually taper to nothing. Nicotine nasal spray isn’t recommended for people who have a nasal or sinus condition, allergies or asthma. Don’t smoke while using the nasal spray. Rarely, you may get too much nicotine and experience nausea or dizziness.
5. Bupropion - Zyban, Wellbutrin
   The antidepressant drug bupropion can help control nicotine cravings. It’s available as a prescription stop-smoking aid. Side effects may include insomnia and dry mouth. Rarely, a severe allergic reaction can occur. Bupropion is often used for seven to 12 weeks, beginning one to two weeks before you plan to quit smoking. For the first three days of bupropion therapy, many people take a 150-milligram tablet each morning. On the fourth day, they take another 150-milligram tablet about eight hours after the morning tablet. Bupropion may be used for smoking cessation maintenance for up to six months. You must discuss with your doctor if this is the right drug for you.
6. Varenicline - Chantix
   The newest drug just released for smoking cessation. It is available as a prescription smoking cessation aid. Side effects may include insomnia, nausea and headache. Varenicline is to be used for 12 weeks. While you are on Varenicline, you should not be smoking. It may be taken for additional 12 weeks for smoking cessation maintenance. You must discuss with your doctor if this is the right drug for you.