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Smoking Cessation Buying Guide

Physical Addiction

Nicotine is primarily responsible for every smoker's addiction. Nicotine's addictive power can be challenging, especially when confronted with the full spectrum of withdrawal symptoms: headache, irritability, increased appetite, inability to concentrate, irritability, dizziness, constipation, nicotine craving, anxiety, depression, and insomnia--the list goes on. In case the jitters gets the best of you, there are a number of nicotine replacement products  that can reduce the unpleasant side effects of withdrawal. 

With so many options, it is important to remain educated on the benefits and detriments associated with each form of NRT. In the table below you will find an introduction to the three main treatments of nicotine addiction: the patch, the gum, and the lozenge. However, psychological addiction remains as a major hurdle for many quitting smokers. One useful resource is the Click2Quit program developed by GlaxoSmithKline, which gives free personalised support service and offers a range of nicotine replacement products.  When used in combination with therapy to reduce the psychological dependence and gradually reducing intake over time, nicotine replacement therapy can be very effective. As with all health products, be sure to discuss all treatment options with your health care professional before starting a program and always follow proper usage instructions.

Psychological Addiction

In many instances, smoking cessation can result in a variety of psychological side effects. Depression, irritability and an oral fixation are some of the most common. It's always helpful to cope with quitting with some outside assistance. Usually programs should last about two weeks minimum or consist of at least four half hour sessions. Depending on the amount of support you need, it may be beneficial to continue with group or individual therapy until you feel ready to go it alone. Remember that friends and family can also help support you through the cessation process.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine Patch/Transdermal System

The main benefit of using a transdermal system or "patch" is that by applying it once in the morning it will continue to supply nicotine gradually throughout the day, which reduces the amount of time you spend thinking about getting a fix. Patches are available in a variety of strengths designed to match your daily nicotine intake and gradually lessen the dosage until you are completely weened from the drug. Nicoderm CQ,  for example, comes in two strengths, while Nicorette  comes in three. Both brands offer the discreet clear patches, while Nicorette also offers a sub-lingual "Microtab" version of the patch, which is placed beneath the tongue and absorbed similarly to a lozenge. You can also choose a patch based on the amount of time you plan to wear it. For example, you may select a 24-hour patch (to help reduce morning withdrawal) or a 16-hour patch. (Note that 24-hour patches worn throughout the night have been known to cause sleep problems, nightmares and more side effects overall.) This is the least expensive method of controlling nicotine cravings, at as low as 2.00 per day. Most packs come in one week or two week  Prices do not vary by strength. 

Nicotine Gum

The purpose of nicotine gum is to provide instant relief from a nicotine craving. The hit will be milder than a cigarette and takes about 30 minutes to completely absorb the nicotine through the mucous membranes of the mouth. This may be an excellent option for those with sensitive skin. Nicotine gum comes in two strengths, 2 mg and 4 mg. If you smoke eighteen or more cigarettes a day, you should use the 4mg strength and you will need about 12-15 pieces of gum per day to start (about one per hour).It must be used in a particular way in order to avoid stomach irritation (due to swallowing the nicotine) or cravings. Because it does contain nicotine, this gum can actually increase one's addiction to the drug. If you choose this method, it is strongly recommended that you follow the instructions exactly and only use the product for a period of six months or less.Nicotine gum ranges from packets of 30 to 210, and from 5.00 to 30.00, respectively. Prices do vary between brands. Popular brands include Nicorette  and Nicotinelle. 

Nicotine Lozenge

Nicotine lozenges are similar to nicotine gums as they are absorbed through the mouth and can produce similar adverse reactions if swallowed. They are one of the newest types of nicotine replacements and they come in 2 mg and 4 mg doses that are used at set intervals. As with other replacement therapies, a user reduces his or her addiction by using the product less frequently. The program usually lasts 12 weeks.Since this is an oral supplement, it is ideal for controlling sudden cravings and may also help those who may simply have an oral fixation associated with smoking. Note that lozenges tend to cost more on average than the gums. The UK's most popular brand is NiQuitin.  


Prescription Products

  • Nasal Spray : When you need a fix, these offer quick and easy satisfaction at your convenience. Cost varies from 5 to 15 a day.
  • Nicotine Inhalers : These plastic inhalers tend to be very effective since they closely mimic the feeling of smoking. However, they are very expensive.
  • Zyban/Wellbutrin : This is a non-nicotine, anti-depressant pill. These can be helpful in combination with nicotine replacements for those who are heavily addicted to smoking.
  • Chantix : These tablets are new and are non-nicotine based. Their purpose is to cut withdrawal symptoms while reducing the pleasure of smoking. The treatment period may last from 12 to 24 weeks.

Additional Help

There are a variety of books, CDs and tapes that can aid you in your journey towards cessation. Allen Carr 's self-help series on smoke cessation is a great resource.

Having someone to talk to can help a lot when going through cessation.The NHS has a 24/7 helpline (0800 022 4 332) if ever you need a helping hand.

The NHS also offers one-on-one and group support sessions in your area. 

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