How does NRT work?
Nicotine replacement therapy works by swapping the very high concentrations of nicotine you get from cigarettes, for lower doses delivered more slowly. So it helps reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms you get when you give up.

NRT also delivers nicotine without all the tar, chemicals and other harmful elements of tobacco smoke.

Tell me about NRT products
Patches - Do you smoke steadily through the day? Then give these a go. You get a continual supply of nicotine at a low dose so it's harder to respond to those cravings or stressful moments.

Gum - Get chewing! This delivers a higher dose quickly. So if you usually smoke in response to cravings or stress, this might work for you.

Nasal spray - This works like the gum and provides a 'quick fix'.

Tablets and lozenges - Pop one of these under your tongue (sublingual) and, like gum, the nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the mouth.

Inhalator - Miss holding that cigarette? Inhalators help keep your hands busy as well as satisfy cravings. You place a cartridge containing nicotine and take puffs so nicotine is taken into the mouth and back of your throat, but not into your lungs.

Double your chance of success
Tests show that if NRT is used correctly it can double your chance of success. It's one of the best researched methods and good news for those who've found withdrawal hard on previous attempts. If you're not sure what to use, one study has compared the effectiveness of gum, patch, spray and inhalator and found that they are similarly effective.

Where to get NRT
NHS prescription.
From your chemist, without prescription.
Some forms of NRT are available from supermarkets and other retail outlets.
FREE on presecription from your local stop smoking service.

Is NRT for me?
Do you smoke within 30 minutes of waking? Then you could really benefit from NRT.
If you have a medical condition, any health worries or are pregnant, it's important to talk to your pharmacist or doctor first. If you have a history of heart disease and have had difficulty giving up smoking, NRT can normally be recommended.

But if you've had a heart attack or other cardiovascular event in the past four weeks - or suffer from unstable angina - you must ask your consultant whether you should use NRT.

Use it the right way
To check you're using NRT properly, follow the manufacturers' instructions. If you're not sure, ask your pharmacist or doctor. Make sure you don't exceed the manufacturer's recommendations - and if you start smoking again, you must stop using NRT.

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