Treatments
There is a range of different
treatments available that can double your chances of going SmokeFree. In fact,
if you use NHS support and a stop smoking medicine to help manage your cravings
you are up to four times more likely to be successful!
All of these products included on this page are
available on prescription from your doctor, so it doesn't have to cost you a
fortune to quit! You have probably heard about Nicotine Replacement Therapy (or
NRT), but do you know about Zyban or Champix? Read this section to find out
more.
Is nicotine replacement right for you?
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) works
differently to cigarettes. It does not contain toxic chemicals like tar or
carbon monoxide, and does not cause cancer.
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. There are lots of different
products to choose from.
The descriptions below will help you to understand
your choices and we recommend that you speak to your doctor for further medical
advice. Not registered with a GP? Find a doctor on the
NHS Choices website.
Zyban
(Bupropion Hydrochloride) |
Zyban is a treatment
which changes the way that your body responds to nicotine. You
start taking Zyban 1 to 2 weeks before you quit and treatment
usually lasts for eight weeks to help you through the
withdrawal cravings. It's only available on prescription but is
not suitable for those with certain past or present medical
conditions, and a GP's appointment is normally needed. It is
also not available if you are pregnant or under the age of 18.
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Champix
(Varenicline) |
Champix works by
reducing your craving for a cigarette and by reducing the
effects you feel if you do have a cigarette. You set a date to
stop smoking, and start taking tablets 1 or 2 weeks before this
date. Treatment normally lasts for 12 weeks. It's only available
on prescription but is not suitable for those with certain past
or present medical conditions, and a GP's appointment is
normally needed. It is also not available if you are pregnant or
under the age of 18. |
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Nicotine gum
When you use nicotine gum, the
nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth. |
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Nicotine patches
Nicotine patches work well for
most regular smokers and can be worn round the clock (24 hour
patches) or just during the day (16 hour patches). |
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Microtabs
These are small tablets
containing nicotine which dissolve quickly under your tongue. |
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Lozenges
Lozenges slowly release nicotine
through the lining of the mouth and take about 20-30 minutes to dissolve. |
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Inhalators
The Inhalator is a small plastic
tube which contains a nicotine cartridge, which releases nicotine vapour which
you draw into your mouth. If you miss the 'hand to
mouth' aspect of smoking, these may suit you. |
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Nicotine nasal spray
The spray delivers a swift and
effective dose of nicotine through the lining of your nose. |