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Smoking
Nicotine
Benefits of Quitting Smoking
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Zyban
Nicotine Replacement Products
With the exception of Zyban, the majority of smoking cessation
products are categorized as nicotine replacement products.
These products deliver small, steady doses of nicotine into
the body, with a goal to relieve withdrawal symptoms. Although
these products deliver nicotine into the bloodstream, they do
not contain the tar, poisons and carbon monoxide that are
primarily responsible for the profound health effects caused
by cigarette smoking.
Research has demonstrated that the success rates for quitting
smoking double when a smoker uses smoking cessation products
to help them quit.
There are four types of nicotine replacement products:
patches, gum, nasal spray and nicotine inhalers.
Nicotine Patch
Called the nicotine transdermal system, this method of smoking
cessation was first available in the U.S. in 1992 by
prescription only, and in 1996 became available as an over the
counter product. Brand names of nicotine patches include
Nicoderm, Nicotrol and Habitrol. A new patch is applied every
day to a different area of skin and is most often worn for a
24 hour period, unless otherwise indicated.
The patch is like a bandage applied to the skin and may cause
a mild itching or burning sensation in the skin. This usually
disappears within 60 minutes. If a skin rash, redness or
swelling appears, a doctor should be consulted. The nicotine
patch can cause excessive irritation to those with allergies
or other skin problems.
Nicotine Gum
Nicorette gum became available as prescription only in 1984,
then was sold over the counter starting in 1996. Nicorette gum
release nicotine into the bloodstream through the mouth after
chewing. The chewing follows a structured course, and usually
lasts for 30 minutes. The maximum recommended pieces of gum
are between 20-30 per day; however, most people find that 10
or so pieces of gum a day successfully manages cravings.
Those suffering from temporomandibular joint disease (TMJ) or
wearing dentures may have difficulty with this product.
Nicotine Inhalers
The Nicotrol nicotine inhalation system for smoking cessation
became available in 1997. Nicotine enters the user's mouth
through a mouthpiece that is attached to a plastic cartridge.
The nicotine doesn't reach the lungs like cigarette smoke,
but is almost entirely absorbed by the mouth.
Nicotine inhalers can cause cough or throat irritation, and
those suffering from asthma or bronchitis should refrain from
using these products.
Nicotine Nasal Spray
Nicotine nasal sprays entered the market in 1996 and are
available by prescription only. The nicotine is inhaled into
the nose from a pump bottle and is absorbed into the
bloodstream through the nasal lining.
The nasal spray is not generally recommended for use for a
period longer than 6 months. Sinus and nasal irritation can be
unwanted side effects, and those suffering from asthma,
allergies and sinus problems should refrain from using this
product.
Safety
Serious risks can result if
these products are not used according to instructions. The
following safety pointers should be followed.
-
Keep all nicotine replacement
products out of reach of children and pets. This includes
those that have been used and discarded. Very small amounts of
nicotine can cause serious damage to children and animals.
-
Don't smoke, chew tobacco or use
any other products containing nicotine. It is possible to
overdose on nicotine.
-
Consult a doctor prior to using
any nicotine replacement product if you have medical problems
such as high blood pressure or heart disease.
-
Consult a doctor if you are
taking other medications, particularly those used to treat
asthma or depression.
-
Consult a doctor prior to using
any nicotine replacement product if you are pregnant or
breast-feeding.
Heavy smokers will often
experience some withdrawal symptoms while using these
products.
The Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention offer excellent information about
smoking, tobacco
use and smoking cessation resources. Quitnet is an
excellent online aid for all aspects of
quitting
smoking. |
