Quitting smoking, while necessary for the health benefits, can be a complex undertaking for anyone.  Given the highly addictive nature of nicotine, whether you have been smoking for a short amount of time or for decades, quitting can test your willpower.  Nicotine replacement therapies are a great way to get you started on the road to eliminating nicotine permanently.  These nicotine replacement therapies come in a variety of forms, from a patch that you wear to gum and lozenges.  Nicotine replacement therapy works by helping to reduce the withdrawal symptoms and cravings.  The frequency of your regular nicotine use should determine the nicotine dosage you use.  As your body adjusts, you can slowly begin using these aids less and less to ultimately ween yourself off of nicotine entirely.

Nicotine Replacement Options Available

A nicotine patch is discreet and can easily be worn beneath clothing and out of sight.  The patch is available in varying milligrams, depending on how much you smoke each day.  Over time, this can be dropped down to a lower dosage until it is eliminated entirely.  Possible side effects with the nicotine patch include skin irritation from the patch itself, headaches, and sleep disruptions.

Nicotine gum is another popular option for many people looking to give up smoking.  It is fast-acting and can be purchased over the counter at a drug store.  The nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the mouth.  This gum comes in different strengths, depending on how much nicotine your body is used to.  Side effects from nicotine gum can include a bad taste in your mouth, upset stomach, nausea, and feeling lightheaded.

Lozenges are another option for nicotine replacement therapy.  These can also be bought over the counter and are available in varying strengths.  Potential side effects with nicotine lozenges can include nausea, hiccups, heartburn, difficulty sleeping, headache, and a cough.

Available via a prescription is a nicotine nasal spray.  This can quickly remove symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.  The FDA does recommend limiting the use of these nasal sprays to no more than six months consecutively.  The most common side effects include nose and throat irritation, runny and watery eyes, sneezing, and coughing.

Another nicotine replacement therapy that is only available through a prescription is nicotine inhalers.  Unlike typical inhalers, nicotine inhalers deliver the most nicotine to the mouth and throat, where it is absorbed.  Side effects can include coughing, mouth and throat irritation, runny nose, headaches, and an upset stomach.

Who Should Not Consider Nicotine Replacement Therapies

Nicotine replacement therapies are not for everyone.  Pregnant women who are trying to quit smoking should focus on other methods for their smoking cessation, rather than nicotine replacement.  These therapies are not approved for use in anyone under the age of eighteen.  If you currently have or have had a heart problem in the past, you should only be using nicotine replacement therapies when regularly monitored by your doctor.

Nicotine replacement therapies can be an excellent tool for reducing the amount of nicotine you are consuming, eventually tapering off entirely.  When used following the directions, this is a safe option for most smokers to give up nicotine and live a healthier life.