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PRODUCTS THAT HELP
Even with all the tools listed, quitting smoking is sometimes just
too tough to handle! If you still have trouble stopping, check with
your doctor about getting a prescription for other products that
help, like nicotine gum, the patch, or Zyban.
Note: This information is not intended to replace the advice of
your doctor. Please talk with him or her before choosing a stop
smoking product.
The Quick Scoop
Nicotine Gum
The gum is filled with nicotine; it's not bubble gum! After a few
seconds, you will feel and taste the nicotine, a peppery, tingling
sensation in your mouth. Then, park it between your cheeks and gum
until you have another craving to smoke. Chew it again until the
cravings go away. Keep this up until the tingly feeling doesn't
come back. Replace it with a new piece of gum. The program can last
from 10 to 12 weeks, depending on how long it takes for you to wean
yourself off of the gum. The most common side effects are jaw fatigue
and an upset stomach. For more information and to get a prescription,
talk to your doctor.
Nicotine Patch
The patch is another nicotine delivery system that gets absorbed
through your skin. But unlike the cigarette, there is no carbon
monoxide, the poisonous, deadly gas you breathe in when you smoke,
nor any tars, the cancer-causing agent in tobacco smoke. The patch
is placed on a dry, hairless spot between your neck and waist. Replace
it with a new patch every day. You'll receive just enough nicotine
to help with the cravings but much less than you would if you were
smoking cigarettes. The program can last from 6 to 10 weeks. The
most common side effect is skin irritation. For more information
and to get a prescription, talk to your doctor.
Zyban
Zyban is a nicotine-free prescription
medication for quitting smoking. It helps with cravings and lessens
the withdrawal symptoms. Begin by taking one pill every day for
the first 3 days. Then, increase to two pills every day, with pills
being taken at least 8 hours apart. This program usually takes at
least 7 to 12 weeks, depending on your doctor's instructions. The
most common side effects are dry mouth and trouble sleeping. For
more information and to get a prescription, talk to your doctor.
We still do not know how well these products work
for teens or about all of the side effects, which is why it is important
to use them only under the supervision of a physician. For
more information about these cessation products, go to QuitCommit
links at http://www.quitcommit.com/links.asp.
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