Types of Nicotine Substitutes

Nicotine patches (transdermal nicotine systems): Patches provide a measured dose of nicotine through the skin. As the nicotine doses are lowered by switching patches over a course of weeks, the tobacco user is weaned off nicotine. Patches can be purchased without a prescription. Several types and different strengths are available. Package inserts describe how to use the product as well as special considerations and possible side effects.

• The 16-hour patch works well for light-to-average tobacco users. It is less likely to cause side effects like skin irritation, racing heartbeat, sleep problems, and headache. But it does not deliver nicotine during the night, so it is not helpful for early morning withdrawal symptoms.

   

• The 24-hour patch provides a steady dose of nicotine, avoiding peaks and troughs. It helps with early morning withdrawal. However, there may be more side effects such as disrupted sleep patterns and skin irritation.

Depending on body size, most tobacco users should start using a full-strength patch (15-22 mg of nicotine) daily for 4 weeks, and then use a weaker patch (5-14 mg of nicotine) for another 4 weeks. The patch should be applied in the morning to a clean, dry area of the skin without much hair. It should be placed below the neck and above the waist - for example, on the arm. The FDA recommends using the patch for 3 to 5 months. However, some studies have shown that using it for 8 weeks or less is just as effective as using it for longer.

Side effects of the patch are related to:

• the dose of nicotine
• the brand of patch
• your individual skin characteristics
• how long you use the patch
• how it is applied

Some possible side effects of nicotine replacement include:

• skin irritation - redness and itching
• dizziness
• racing heartbeat
• sleep problems
• headache
• nausea
• vomiting
• muscle aches and stiffness

What to do about side effects:

• Try a different brand of patch if skin irritation occurs.
• Reduce the amount of nicotine by using a lower dose patch.
• Sleep problems may be temporary and pass within 3 or 4 days. If not, try switching to a 16-hour patch.
• Stop using the patch and try a different form of nicotine replacement.

Nicotine gum (nicotine polacrilex): Nicotine gum is a fast-acting form of replacement that acts through the mucous membrane of the mouth. It can be bought over-the-counter without a prescription. It comes in 2 mg and 4 mg strengths.

For best results, follow the instructions of the package insert. Chew the gum slowly until you note a peppery taste. Then, "park" it against the cheek, chewing it and parking it off and on for about 20 to 30 minutes. Food and drink can affect how well the nicotine is absorbed. You should avoid acidic foods and drinks such as coffee, juices, and soft drinks for at least 15 minutes before and during gum use.

If you smoke a pack or more per day, smoke within 30 minutes of rising, or have trouble not smoking in restricted areas, you may need to start with the higher dose (4 mg). No more than 20 pieces should be used in one day. Nicotine gum is usually recommended for 1 to 3 months, with the maximum being 6 months. Tapering the amount of gum chewed may help you stop using it.

If you have sensitive skin, you may prefer the gum to the patch. Another advantage of nicotine gum is that it allows you to control the nicotine doses. The gum can be chewed as needed or on a fixed schedule during the day. The most recent data has shown that scheduled dosing is more effective. A schedule of 1 to 2 pieces per hour is common. On the other hand, with an as-needed schedule, you can chew more nicotine during a craving.

Some possible side effects of the gum:

• bad taste
• throat irritation
• mouth ulcers
• hiccups
• nausea
• jaw discomfort
• racing heartbeat

Symptoms related to the stomach and jaw are usually caused by improper use of the gum, such as swallowing nicotine or chewing too rapidly.

Long-term dependence is one possible disadvantage of nicotine gum. In fact, research has shown that 15% to 20% of gum users who successfully quit smoking continue using the gum for a year or longer. Although the maximum recommended length of use is 6 months, continuing to use the gum is likely to be safer than going back to smoking. But since there is little research on the health effects of long-term nicotine gum use, most health care providers still recommend limiting its use to 6 months.

We would like to help you save money and time by delivering your favorite brands of cigarettes to your door at discount prices.  You can save on Marlboro and many other cigarette brands.  Think of us as your discount cigarettes shopping guide on the Web!  We offer savings on cigarettes like Marlboro, Newport, Camel, GPC, USA Gold, Benson & Hedges, Carlton, Merit, Parliament, Pall Mall, Misty and many other popular cigarette brands.

Discount Marlboro Cigarettes - Save on cheap Marlboro cigarettes shipped fresh for the cheapest prices.  Tax Free and Duty Free saves you money!

Cheap Online Cigarettes Store - Another reliable online cigarettes distributor.  Excellent prices, international shipping.  Satisfaction guaranteed!

Buy Zyban Online - Quit smoking with our safe, proved effective products including Zyban, Nicorette, and Nicoderm CQ.  No prescription required - FREE online consultation.

Camel Cigarettes - Lucky Strike Cigarettes - Online Cigarettes Sale - Cigarette Prices
Russian Cigarettes - Mail Order Cigarettes - Cigarette Coupons - Cigarette Facts

Shopping4cheap.com