Among the aids to quitting smoking, nicotine substitutes have proven themselves: they significantly increase the chances of success. However, they are often used incorrectly, under-dosed or stopped too early. Properly understood, they relieve withdrawal and make it easier to stop. Instructions for using these precious allies.
1. What are substitutes for?
Nicotine replacements provide nicotine without the toxic substances of smoke. They relieve withdrawal symptoms (cravings, irritability) that lead to smoking again, while allowing time to break habits. They do not contain the thousands of harmful compounds found in cigarettes.
2. The different shapes
| Shape | Usage |
|---|---|
| Patch | Continuous delivery throughout the day |
| Chewing gum | Quick action on desires |
| Pastille | Quick action, discreet |
| Combination | Patch + quick shape according to need |
The patch ensures substantive diffusion, while the oral forms (gums, lozenges) respond to occasional desires. Combining them is often recommended for good coverage.
3. Mistakes to avoid
Common errors are underdosing (insufficient dose in relation to consumption) and stopping too early. Appropriate dosage and sufficient duration are essential. Contrary to popular belief, properly used substitutes do not create problematic dependence and are much safer than tobacco.
- Adapt the dose to actual consumption
- Do not stop substitutes too early
- Combine patch and oral form if necessary
4. Get advice
The doctor or pharmacist can help choose the appropriate form and dosage, and adjust as you stop. Substitutes can be covered by prescription. Support further increases the chances of success.
Used properly, nicotine substitutes are an effective and safe support for quitting smoking. Talking to a professional optimizes their use.
💡 tips to remember
- Nicotinic substitutes provide nicotine without the toxic substances of smoke and relieve withdrawal.
- The patch ensures background diffusion; gums and lozenges meet occasional cravings. Combining them is often recommended.
- Frequent mistakes are underdosing and stopping too early: I adapt the dose to my consumption and continue for quite a long time.
- When used correctly, substitutes do not create problematic dependence and are much safer than tobacco.
- The doctor or pharmacist helps choose form and dosage; substitutes can be covered by prescription.
