There are many scientifically proven stop smoking medications available in the market today that will help a person stop the habit of smoking. Although they do not work all by themselves, the stop smoking medications does help a person feel more comfortable and in control while adjusting to a life free from the habit. As a matter of fact, these stop smoking medications help double your chances of quitting the smoking habit.

Although there are stop smoking medications available without a doctor's prescription, it would be best if you consult your doctor for the decision in choosing which medication or combination of stop smoking medications will be suitable for you.

The nicotine patch is a small, adhesive patch that slowly releases nicotine into the bloodstream through the outer layer of the skin. It can be applied anywhere between the waist and neck and is easy to use. It is also available without a doctor's prescription and in various doses. This flexibility allows a person to manage one's withdrawal symptoms and cravings and also helps taper the amount of nicotine you will receive as you slowly become comfortable with not smoking.

Nicotine gum keeps your mouth busy, and it also satisfies your smoking cravings quickly. The gum is made from a special material called polacrilex. To release the nicotine from the gum, chew until you feel a tingling sensation in your mouth. Now, to absorb the nicotine, hold the chewed gum between the cheek and gums until the taste or tingling sensation disappears. If you want more nicotine, just chew and hold it for several times. You can buy it over the counter in 2-4 ml doses and chew it as often as needed. A person can use up to 24 pieces of gum a day.

Nicotine lozenges are similar to hard candy. You place them in your mouth and suck them slowly. It can be used discreetly to quickly satisfy your cravings. Each lozenge can last for 20- 30 minutes. This stop smoking medication system is available over the counter in 2-4 ml dose. Just do not swallow it whole as you will get too much nicotine, which may cause dizziness and nausea.

The nicotine inhaler is a device that allows you to get low doses of nicotine using the same hand to mouth motions of smoking. Puffing gently on this device releases a small dose of nicotine from a cartridge in the device. Hold the vapor in your mouth for a few seconds and then blow it out. The nicotine is absorbed thru the tissues of the mouth and throat.

The nicotine nasal spray reaches the bloodstream more quickly than the other stop smoking medications. The nicotine nasal spray is sprayed through your nostrils. The recommended dose is a spray into each nostril one to five times an hour. This system is available only thru a doctor's prescription as the side effects are nasal, throat, and sinus irritation.

Smoking is a complex addiction with a lot of physical and psychological elements. The most effective strategy to quit smoking is to combine stop smoking medications with a program that includes support from professionals specifically trained to treat tobacco use and dependence.