Medicines to Help Quit Smoking

There are many medicines that can help you quit smoking. So you don't have to do it alone. At first, you may feel depressed, have trouble sleeping, or just not feel like yourself. This means that your body is going through withdrawal, or getting used to not having nicotine. These symptoms only last a few weeks and medicines can help give you some relief. Most help you quit by giving you small, steady doses of nicotine. Using them can double your chances of quitting for good. Talk with your health care provider about which of these medicines is right for you.

Nictotine replacement therapy includes nictotine patches, gum, nasal spray, and inhalers. They help lessen your urge to smoke by taking the place of nictotine from cigarettes.

• Nicotine patch - worn on the skin and supplies a steady amount of nicotine to the body through the skin.
• Nicotine gum - releases nicotine into the bloodstream through the lining in your mouth.
• Nicotine nasal spray - inhaled through your nose and passes into your bloodstream.
• Nicotine inhaler - inhaled through the mouth and is absorbed in the mouth and throat, but not in the lungs.

In general, when you quit smoking, use the nictotine as a "substitute" for one to two months, then gradually cut down the nictotine until you stop that, too. You can buy patches and gum on your own at a drug store. You need a prescription for the inhaler and nasal spray.

Bupropion SR (Zyban â) is a medicine that has no nicotine but may help you quit. It is an anti-depressant that helps relieve withdrawal symptoms and the urge to smoke. Your health care provider can prescribe this medicine.

Not everyone can use these medicines. If you are pregnant or have heart problems, be sure to talk with your health care provider before using any of them.