Nicotine is a highly addictive drug that is found in tobacco products. It is one of the main reasons people find it so difficult to quit smoking. The withdrawal symptoms of quitting nicotine are very similar to those experienced by individuals being weaned off of narcotics.
Fortunately, there are many different products available to help reduce withdrawal symptoms. Here, we will take a look at some of the best nicotine withdrawal products.
One of the first nicotine withdrawal products to hit the market was originally available only with a prescription. Nicotine gum, originally marketed exclusively under the trade name, Nicorette, is a gum that contains different doses of the substance nicotine polacrilex.
This gum is not used in the same manner as regular chewing gum. Instead, one chews long enough to activate the nicotine, then places the gum between the cheek and gums. The active ingredient is absorbed through the skin inside the mouth.
Nicotine gum is available in two strengths. 4mg pieces are for heavy smokers, those who smoke more than a pack a day. 2mg pieces are for those who smoke less than a pack a day. The one major drawback to using this product to quit smoking is that it still contains nicotine and is addictive. However, many doctors acknowledge that using the gum is not as dangerous to one’s health as smoking.
Another OTC nicotine withdrawal product that was formerly only available by prescription is the nicotine patch. Unlike the gum, which is used whenever one craves a cigarette, the patch is put on in the morning and worn for 24 hours.
During that time, it releases a steady stream of nicotine into the bloodstream through the skin. However, the amount of nicotine is significantly lower than would be obtained from use of tobacco.
There are different programs and strengths of nicotine patch available. The general consensus is that one should start with the highest dose available, 21mg, and gradually step down through the 14mg and 7mg doses over a period of about 8 to 12 weeks. At the end of that time, one should be able to leave off the patch and be nicotine free.
The newest product to be offered as an OTC nicotine withdrawal aid is lozenges. Sold under the brand names Commit and Nicorette, these are simply lozenges similar to those used for a sore throat. They are allowed to dissolve in the mouth and release their nicotine content. Like the gum, lozenges are available in two strengths, 2mg and 4mg.
The common element among all of these products is that all contain nicotine. The differences lie in how much is made available to the body and the point of entry. Doctors everywhere agree that these products are safer for people to use than tobacco, but should be used only for a limited time.
There are also several different medications available that can help one get through nicotine withdrawal and reduce the cravings for nicotine. However, these are only available with a doctor’s prescription and are generally quite expensive. All of the best (OTC) nicotine withdrawal products contain nicotine, but they are available without prescriptions and usually cost less than other alternatives.
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