Nicotine Replacement Therapy

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• NRT can double the chance of success compared to relying only on willpower
• NRT can help to prevent withdrawal symptoms and cravings
• Using NRT to relieve cravings frees you to concentrate on breaking the habit of smoking

NRT is the only method scientifically proven to help smokers quit. It works by helping you manage your withdrawal symptoms. NRT goes into your body in a different way to nicotine from cigarettes so is much less addictive, and it does not cause cancer. If you choose to stop smoking with support from the service you will be able to get NRT on prescription. There are lots of types of NRT products available and all of them are effective. Below is a brief description of the different types of products availbe, how to use them and any unwanted effects.

	Patches The self adhesive patch delivers a continuous, controlled dose of nicotine into your body through the skin over the course of 16 hours or 24 hours to relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Use a fresh patch first thing every morning and apply to a clean dry area on the front or side of the chest, upper arm or hip. Those smoking 20 cigarettes or more a day should start with the strongest dose and gradually reduce to the lowest over 12 weeks. The patches are very discreet and easy to use. The 24 hour patches are helpful for those who get up in the night to smoke. The patches may cause a skin reaction and should not be used on sore or inflamed skin. Some may experience disturbed sleep or vivid dreams.
	Lozenges The sugar free lozenge is available in 4mg or 2mg strength and original, mint or citrus flavour. The lozenge should be sucked until the flavour becomes strong then rested between the cheek and gum until the flavour fades. This process is repeated until the lozenge has completely dissolved which takes about 20 minutes. Do not chew or swallow the lozenge. Up to 20 lozenges a day may be used. Nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the mouth to ease cravings, but using the lozenge may cause heartburn or indigestion. It is discreet and easy to use and the dosage is gradually reduced over 12 weeks.
	Gum The gum is available in 4mg or 2mg strength and original, mint or citrus flavour. It is used in a similar way to the lozenges. The gum is chewed until the flavour becomes strong then rested between the cheek and gum until the flavour fades. The process is repeated until all the taste has disappeared. Do not swallow the gum but dispose of it safely. Up to 15 pieces of gum a day may be used. Nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the mouth to ease cravings, but may cause hiccups and mild heartburn. Continuous chewing may cause pain in the jaws and the gum is not suitable for those with dental problems. The dosage is reduced over 12 weeks.

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