Using nicotine replacement therapy or NRT can increase your chances of successfully quitting smoking. Nicotine replacement therapy works by releasing nicotine (the addictive substance in
cigarettes) into the body to reduce tobacco withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking cessation.
NRT takes care of the physical cravings, this leaves your mind free to
plan how to deal with situations that tempt you to smoke.
As with all quitting aids, NRT should be used as part of an overall
quit plan, it is not a complete quitting solution by itself. You need to be motivated to stop smoking, and with the addition of nicotine replacement therapy, your chances of successfully quitting is enhanced.
NRT is usually a tapering 2-3 step program. You start at a higher dose of nicotine, and after time, you gradually reduce how much nicotine you supply to your body and eventually stop.
There may be some side effects to using nicotine replacement therapy, these are usually minor and transient (doesn't last long). Common side effects from NRT use are:
- dizziness
- headache
- nausea
- vivid dreams
- skin reactions with patches (usually caused by the adhesive)
People using NRT who experience:
- irregular heart beat or palpitations
- symptoms of nicotine overdose
- severe nausea
- vomiting
- dizziness
- weakness
- rapid heartbeat
should stop using nicotine replacement therapy and see their doctors immediately.
Nicotine replacement therapy comes in the form of:
All rights reserved.
