Quit Smoking Using the Patch
Many people struggle to quit smoking, and finding the right method for you can be a huge challenge with the mass of information and products out there today. Nicotine patches are one method many have chosen in recent years, and more and more people are now catching on to the trend.
Using a nicotine replacement product like a nicotine patch can greatly increase the chance of a smoker’s ability to quit. These adhesive patches have a specific amount of nicotine in them, and provide a constant, low-level dose of nicotine into the bloodstream throughout the day. They are usually used over a period of a few months, gradually stepping down the dosage of nicotine as you go along.
There are several different brands of patches, and some are now sold over the counter. For others you will need to get a prescription from your doctor. Deciding which one is right for you is your second most important step to quitting, after deciding you need to quit in the first place!
Here are three popular brands to choose from:
Habitrol patches are round and come in three strengths: 21, 14, or 7 milligrams of nicotine per patch. Depending on how heavy a smoker you are, you may start at a higher or lower dose. This patch is used 24 hours a day.
NicoDerm CQ patches are rectangular and come in three strengths: 21, 14, or 7 milligrams of nicotine per patch. Like Habitrol, your dose will depend on how much you smoke. This patch is worn for 24 hours or less depending on your level of cravings.
Nicotrol patches deliver 15 milligrams of nicotine per patch. You put one on in the morning, wear it all day and remove it at bedtime. You don’t use it when you sleep.
Nicotrol is available over-the-counter.
Safe use of these patches assumes that you quit smoking entirely and rely on the doses of nicotine to ease the effects of withdrawal. The effects of withdrawal are not to be taken lightly, as they can lead to anger, anxiety, irritability and restlessness, among other problems. Smoking is both a physical addiction and a psychological addiction. Nicotine patches address only the physical withdrawal from smoking, so the other half rests in your hands!
The success of these products is greatly increased when combined with a quit smoking support group, or counseling.
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Trying to Quit Smoking? For more great resources and information on how to quit click here! Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Matthew_Jahn Author Matthew Jahn |