The nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) that is currently FDA approved for use in the United States includes the nicotine patch, nicotine gum, nicotine lozenges, nicotine nasal spray, and the nicotine inhaler.

The patches, gum and lozenges are currently available over the counter. The nasal spray and inhaler are available by prescription only.

NRT reduces the severity of the physiological withdrawal symptoms by gradually reducing the amount of nicotine that is received.

Nicotine replacement is absorbed either through the skin (patches) or through membranes in the nose or mouth (nicotine gum, lozenges, inhaler and nasal spray).

All NRT's deliver nicotine to the body differently than tobacco. The delivery of nicotine is slower and results in lower nicotine blood levels. With this route of administration, nicotine is absorbed slowly and transported to the brain in smaller, even doses. This means that the smoker or chewer will not get the same immediate feeling of reward that was a part of smoking or chewing.

Zyban

The FDA approved Zyban in 1997 for smoking cessation. It is available by prescription only. Zyban Sustained Release is a nicotine free tablet.

Treatment is begun 8-14 days before quitting tobacco.

The dosage of each tablet is 150 mg of bupropion hydrocholoride. One 150 mg tablet is taken in the morning for the first 3 days. On the fourth day, begin taking an additional 150 mg tablet in the evening, at least 8 hours after the morning dose.

Zyban duration is 7 to 12 weeks. For maintenance therapy a doctor may prescribe Zyban for up to 6 months.

Acupuncture

Western science has confirmed that acupuncture treatments change levels of chemicals in the body and act on the nervous system.

One common rationale for the use of acupuncture for smoking cessation is that acupuncture can release endorphins that assist in cessation by easing tobacco withdrawal.

Acupuncture can be used with other forms of cessation methods.

Hypnosis

Strategies for hypnosis interventions can include direct hypnotic suggestions to quit, suggestions intended to produce aversion to smoking, and training in self-hypnosis to reinforce treatment success.

Hypnosis tends to be useful as part of a multi-component intervention.

Herbal Medicines

A variety of herbal medicines have been used to assist in tobacco cessation. It is important to check whether any herbal products are contra-indicated due to prescription medications or current health issues.