Nicotine replacement products help relieve some of the withdrawal symptoms people experience when they quit smoking or using tobacco. Three nicotine replacement products are currently available over-the-counter in the United States, including two nicotine patches and nicotine gum.

• To be most effective, nicotine replacement products should be used in conjunction with a behavior change program.
• The nicotine patch releases a constant amount of nicotine in the body; the nicotine dissolves right through the skin and enters the body. The patches are similar to adhesive bandages and are available in different shapes and sizes. Wearing the nicotine patch lessens chances of suffering from several of the major tobacco withdrawal symptoms such as tenseness, irritability, drowsiness, and lack of concentration.
• Nicotine gum contains enough nicotine to reduce the urge to smoke, chew or dip. Like nicotine patches, nicotine gum helps take the edge off cigarette and tobacco cravings without providing the tars and poisonous gases found in cigarettes. Nicotine gum must be used properly in order to be effective.
• Nicotine nasal spray, dispensed from a pump bottle, relieves cravings for a cigarette. It delivers nicotine to the nasal membranes and reaches the bloodstream faster than any other NRT products. It is available by prescription.
• A non-nicotine pill, bupropion hydrochloride (Zyban) was approved in 1997 to help smokers quit. The drug, available by prescription only, is also sold as an antidepressant under the name Wellbutrin.

It is necessary with all types of nicotine replacement therapy to follow the doctor's orders and use these products only as prescribed and/or according to labeling. These products can also be dangerous for pregnant women.

The goal in using nicotine medications is to stop smoking or using tobacco completely. If you plan to take nicotine medications, begin using them on the day you quit. If you continue to have strong urges for tobacco or are struggling to stop using tobacco completely, ask your healthcare provider about additional help.

Contact Student Health Services for a prescription for Zyban. (703) 993-2833

Resources: American Lung Association

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Health Education Services
(703) 993-3690/3686
SUB I, Room 219J