Stopping smoking
Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the UK smoke cigarettes. About 120,000 people die each year as a result of smoking. Many people wish to give up smoking (for health and financial reasons) but nicotine is very addictive and stopping without help can be difficult.
The following medicines are available in addition to you will power and help groups such as NHS Smoking Helpline (0800 1690169) and QUIT Line (0800 002200).
Why is it so hard to stop?
As stated earlier, tobacco smoke contains nicotine which stimulates the brain to produce chemicals giving rise to feelings of comfort and satisfaction. Once the brain gets used to these feelings ('dependence' or 'addiction'), stopping suddenly can cause severe cravings leading to irritability or depression.
Using medicines to help you stop will only work if you are committed to giving up.
Nicotine replacement
This works by giving your brain smaller amounts of nicotine without the additional harmful substances from the smoke. There are 6 different types of nicotine replacement treatment available:
 | chewing gums - Boots, Nicorette and Nicotinell. The nicotine is absorbed mainly through the mouth. |
| skin patch - Boots, Nicorette, Nicotinell and NiQuitin CQ. Patches are stuck to the skin for 16 - 24 hours. |
| nasal spray - Nicorette. Nicotine is absorbed through the nasal lining. |
| inhaler device - Nicorette. The nicotine vapour is absorbed mainly through the mouth and gums. |
| tablet - Nicorette Microtab. Placed under the tongue where it dissolves. |
| lozenge - Nicotinell. Sucking releases the nicotine. |
The dose is gradually reduced over 3 - 4 months allowing you to slowly wean yourself off.
These methods help 1 in 6 people stop smoking compared to 1 in 10 not using nicotine replacement. In addition to nicotine replacement, you will need extra help and advice (such as a 'smoking clinic'). Ask your GP about this. They are all available over the counter or on prescription.
Bupropion (Zyban)
Acts on the parts of the brain where addiction to nicotine occurs. It is recommended that you start the tablets 1-2 weeks before stopping smoking and take them for a total of 7 - 9 weeks.
Zyban helps 1 in 5 people stop smoking compared to 1 in 8 not taking the tablets. Once again these results are for those who received extra counselling in each group.
This is available on prescription only.
Press 'BACK' on your browser