If you've made the decision to quit smoking, you've taken the first and most important step.
However, you are not alone, there are multiple stop smoking products that have proven beneficial in your quest to become a non-smoker; some are available over-the-counter, others require a prescription.
However in every case I strongly recommend speaking with your doctor, or health care professional for medical advice.
NICOTINE PATCH The nicotine patch is small, almost invisible, and can be placed on the arm, or anywhere convenient on the upper body.
The nicotine patch slowly releases nicotine that is absorbed through the skin, into your bloodstream, easing the withdrawal symptoms.
If you are prone to dermatitis or eczema, seek medical advice prior to beginning a nicotine patch regimen.
NICOTINE GUM Nicotine gum helps satisfy your oral cravings; it can be bought over the counter, and used anytime you have the urge for a cigarette.
In most instances over-the-counter doses will be between 2 and 4 mg, you can chew up to 24 pieces a day as needed.
NICOTINE LOZENGES Nicotine lozenges are similar in effect to nicotine gum; however, they allow you to satisfy your craving more discreetly.
The brand name for nicotine lozenges is "Commit".
NICOTINE INHALER A nicotine inhaler has proven very effective, since you are fooling the mind into thinking you are still smoking, mimicking the effect of your hand bringing a cigarette to your mouth.
However instead of harmful carcinogens being released, nicotine vapor helps satisfy your urge to smoke.
CAUTION: when using a nicotine inhaler, do not attempt to inhale deeply into your lungs, keep the nicotine vapor in your mouth and throat only.
NICOTINE NASAL SPRAY Nicotine nasal spray, just as the name suggests, is inhaled through your nose, reaching your bloodstream quickly, allowing a near immediate satisfying feeling of your nicotine craving.
Depending on your tolerance to the spray, and addiction to smoking, it is recommended you use the spray once to five times an hour as needed.
This is a prescription based product and marketed under the name "Nicotrol".
QUIT SMOKING MEDICATION Varenicline (trade name Champix), does not contain nicotine and has proven very successful in controlling your cravings.
Effectively, it blocks the nicotine receptors in your brain, making smoking less pleasurable.
Available by prescription only, statistics indicate a high cure rate.
Bupropion (trade name Zyban) available by prescription only, does not contain nicotine, and comes in pill form.
In some cases, it has been known to cause insomnia and dry mouth.
Discuss Zyban with your doctor or health care provider.
Studies indicate that Zyban is none addictive.
Since you most likely did not become a smoker in one day, instead increasing your intake over time; the same holds true of your journey to become a non-smoker.
When you've made a decision to quit smoking, realize there will be difficulties involved, but also be mindful of the tremendous rewards you'll experience with clean and healthy lungs.
Statistics show the most effective way to quit smoking is combining a quit smoking product with a support group.
There are multiple agencies nationwide, created with the express purpose of helping you quit smoking.