There are several different types of products on the market today to help smokers quit. Only about 6% of those who try to stop permanently succeed their first time. Using one or more of the products discussed below can help you be in that group.



Nicotine patches are among the most popular products that make quitting easier. These patches release nicotine in steady, low amounts. The patch releases the nicotine into the skin which later enters the bloodstream.

Remember that this product, like all products that help you quit, has advantages and disadvantages.

It can be attached discretely, on the upper arm, on the chest or anywhere else between the neck and waist. A patch has to be replaced about once every 24 hours, though some brands tout a longer period. It can cause skin irritation, but moving the location so the same spot isn't used more than once every two weeks can minimize the chances.

Nicotine gum is another common method that, like patches, is available without a prescription. But it does require chewing in a careful manner. It should be massaged with the teeth in one spot until a peppery taste is sensed. Then it's held between the cheek and gum until the taste or tingle disappears. The cycle is repeated every half hour until the gum is used up.

Nicotine lozenges are another common product that functions in a very similar manner. An advantage with this product is that you can control how much nicotine you take in and the results are fast. You can use up to twenty-four of the 2-4 milligram tablets each day. You must use the same procedure as with the nicotine gum. Remember that using these frequently can tire out the jaw muscles. Especially if swallowed accidentally, these lozenges can induce nausea.

Inhalers are preferred by some trying to quit smoking. It's easy to control the dosage and the physical sensation is similar to smoking. The hand has something to do and the pull from expanding the lungs mimics smoking. But they're not appropriate for those who have asthma or some other COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). It's also very easy to overdose.

Similar to inhalers are nicotine nasal sprays. The sinuses and the nasal passages can become irritated when using a nasal spray. An advantage, though, is that the nicotine enters the bloodstream very quickly with this product.

Instead of breaking your addiction to nicotine, these products supply the body with it. Although these products may help you to quit, there are nicotine-free methods.