Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
Nicotine Replacement Therapy is proven to double a motivated smoker’s chance to quit smoking. This effect is even greater when combined with intensive support e.g. a group.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy will supply about half the amount of nicotine that would be supplied by cigarettes through different delivery systems. The dose is gradually reduced to zero via a step down program.
NRT is not addictive due the reduced amount of nicotine supplied and the slow release. Nicotine Replacement Therapies currently available are outlined below:
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This is the easiest form of NRT to use and is available as a 16 hour or 24 hour patch. A new patch is applied each day and the course lasts for 10-12 weeks depending on the make.
Why might Patches suit you? 
- simple to use
- convenient
- discreet
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Lozenges are sucked slowly and are rested between the cheek and gum to release the nicotine. They take about 30 minutes to dissolve and can be used for 12 weeks with the number of lozenges gradually reducing each day.
Why might Lozenges suit you?
- Puts you in control - use as and when you need to
- Discreet
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Using nicotine gum is not like using normal chewing gum. The nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth so you must chew the gum until the taste becomes strong and then rest the gum between your cheek & gums. The gum is used for up to 12 weeks with the number of pieces chewed per day gradually reduced.
Why might Gum suit you? 
- Puts you in control - use it as and when you need to
- Chewing may take your mind off smoking
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Sublingual Tablets (Microtabs) |
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These are small nicotine tablets which dissolve under your tongue. They are used for 12 weeks & the number of tablets taken per day is gradually reduced.
Why might Microtabs suit you?
- Puts you in control - you can use it as and when you need to
- Discreet - no one knows you are taking them
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Recommended for heavy smokers (30-40 cigs per day) nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the nose. It works very quickly but does have some side effects e.g. running nose, coughing, sneezing etc but these should subside within 48 hours. Used for 12 weeks & the number of sprays used per day is gradually reduced.
Why might the Nasal Spray suit you? 
- Rapid absorption of nicotine and works quickly - good for heavy smokers
- Puts you in control - you can take it as and when you need to
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The Inhalator is a plastic mouthpiece which holds cartridges containing nicotine. You puff on the plastic tube and the nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the mouth and throat. Each cartridge contains 20 minutes puffing time although it can be used in small bursts of a few minutes. Can be used for up to 12 weeks with the number of cartridges gradually reduced.
Why might an Inhalator suit you ?
- Puts you in control - you can use it as and when you need it
- If you miss the ' hand to mouth ' aspect of smoking this may suit you
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