Did you know consistent use of nicotine replacement therapy, or NRT, can double your chances of successfully quitting smoking? These products include:

• Nicotine gum and patches, which can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription.
• Nicotine nasal sprays and nicotine inhalers, which require a doctor’s prescription.

How does NRT work? Tobacco contains many different substances, a number of which are known carcinogens and toxic gases. But the main substance in tobacco that makes it so addictive is nicotine. When you try to quit smoking, you go through what’s called nicotine withdrawal. Symptoms include irritability, difficulty concentrating, feelings of depression, sleeping difficulties, increased appetite and cravings, and headaches. Many times these symptoms will begin just a few hours after that last cigarette. So even if you’ve resolved to quit, you can easily be lured back to smoking just to relieve the symptoms of withdrawal.

NRT works by providing your body with the nicotine it needs to avoid these symptoms. But it does so without also providing all the carcinogens and toxic gases found in tobacco smoke. That makes NRT an appropriate treatment for almost anyone trying to kick the habit. In some cases, your doctor may advise you to use more than one of these products at a time for the best results. The best time to start using NRT is the same day you quit smoking. In all cases, carefully follow the package inserts or your doctor’s instructions for using NRT.

What if you end up smoking anyway while using NRT? That’s a good question, and doctors are concerned. If you are just giving in occasionally and having a cigarette every once in a while, it’s probably safe to continue using NRT. But if you’ve gone back to smoking as you did before you tried to quit, it’s best to discontinue the use of NRT and reevaluate your commitment to quitting. Once you’re ready to try again, you can restart your NRT.

Will you end up addicted to NRT just like you were addicted to cigarettes? That doesn’t usually happen. Most people find they can gradually taper off their use of NRT until they are not using it at all. Some, however, do find a need to stay on the therapy for a long time. But if the alternative is starting to smoke again, then experts say to remain on the NRT. And be sure to talk to your doctor, respiratory therapist, or other health care professional. They can help you cut back on NRT or eliminate it entirely.

Are there any other medications that help people quit smoking? Yes, there is a prescription drug called Zyban that can assist with some of the symptoms of withdrawal. This non-nicotine pill is basically an antidepressant and is also sold under the name Wellbutrin for the treatment of depression. Your doctor, respiratory therapist, or other health care professional can help you decide if this medication would help you in your efforts to quit.

Can NRT or Zyban by themselves help a person quit? All the experts say these products are best used in conjunction with a comprehensive smoking cessation program. In other words, don’t try to go it alone!