Nicorette
The main reason that people smoke is because they are addicted to nicotine.
Developed in the late 1970s in Sweden, Nicorette is the brand name of several products used for nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). They contain a low level of nicotine without the tar, carbon monoxide and other poisonous chemicals that you can find in tobacco smoke.
It can help ease unpleasant withdrawal effects, such as bad moods and cravings, which may occur when you try to stop smoking. PPRX offers Nicorette and other smoking cessation products online, here.
Types of Nicorette Therapy
It’s available as:
• skin patches
• chewing gum
• inhalators (which look like plastic cigarettes)
• tablets, oral strips and lozenges
• nasal and mouth spray
What’s the difference?
Patches release nicotine slowly. Some are worn all the time and some should be taken off at night. Inhalators, gum and sprays act more quickly and may be better for helping with cravings.
So which one is right for you?
There’s no evidence that any single type of Nicorette form is more effective than another. But there is good evidence to show that using a combination of Nicorette forms (e.g. combine a patch with a faster acting form such as gum, inhalator or nasal spray) can be more effective than using a single type of Nicorette.
Ultimately, the best treatment for you will depend on your personal preference, your age, whether you’re pregnant or breastfeeding and any medical conditions you have. Speak to your GP or an NHS stop smoking adviser for advice. More information from the NHS can be found here.
How long does the treatment usually last?
Treatment with NRT usually lasts 8-12 weeks, before you gradually reduce the dose and eventually stop.
Who can use it?
Most people are able to use Nicorette including:
• adults and children over 12 years of age – although children under 18 should not use the lozenges without getting medical advice first
• pregnant women – your doctor may suggest NRT if they think it would help you quit; read more about stopping smoking in pregnancy
• breastfeeding women – your doctor can advise you how to do this safely
Always read the packet or leaflet before using NRT to check whether it’s suitable for you.
Sometimes it may be advisable to get medical advice first, for example if you have kidney or liver problems, or you’ve recently had a heart attack or stroke.
You can buy products to help you stop smoking here www.pprx.co.uk/stopsmoking
You can also visit our website and get free pharmacist advice on smoking cessation and other health questions www.pprx.co.uk
