The first few days without nicotine are often the hardest part of going smokefree, as this is when you're fighting the physical addiction. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) can help you to manage your withdrawal symptoms in the early stages. After the cravings pass, you'll find it much easier to deal with the mental side of the habit.
NRT is safe to use as it does not contain tar, poisons or carbon monoxide like cigarettes do, so it doesn't cause cancer.
Getting your NRT through Fresh Start will save you money - you'll only pay the cost of a prescription or you may even get it free if you don't usually pay prescription charges.
There are plenty of different products available because everyone is different. Your advisor will help you to choose the right product for you depending on your lifestyle and your needs.
Nicotine gum is easy to use and comes in different flavours. The gum is chewed then 'parked' in the side of your mouth. The nicotine is then absorbed through the lining of your mouth.
Nicotine patches release nicotine into the bloodstream through your skin. They can be worn round the clock (24 hour patches) or just during the day (16 hour patches).
These are small tablets containing nicotine which dissolve when you place them under your tongue.
Lozenges are sucked slowly to release the nicotine. They take about 20-30 minutes to dissolve.
The inhalator looks like a plastic cigarette. It releases nicotine vapour which gets absorbed through your mouth and throat. Useful if you feel you'd miss the 'hand to mouth' action of smoking.
This is the strongest form of NRT. The spray delivers a quick and effective dose of nicotine through the lining of your nose
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 a couple of months to help you through the withdrawal cravings. Only available on prescription.
Champix works by reducing your craving for a cigarette and by reducing the effects you feel if you do have a cigarette. You start taking Champix 1 or 2 weeks before you quit. Treatment usually lasts for 12 weeks. Only available on prescription.
|
