Quitting smoking is not an easy task. Every smoker who tried and gave up is proof of this. Friends and families of smokers should take it upon themselves to encourage a smoker to give up this habit. You can even encourage them to take the help of professionals who can counsel and help them. You can also suggest products that can help reduce nicotine cravings.

Here are a few products that can help you quit smoking.

Over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy
Nicotine replacement therapy products send small amounts of nicotine into your body, gradually reducing cravings. Such products are easy to use and have few side effects. It is one of the most effective over-the-counter therapy products that aid in quitting smoking. Examples of nicotine replacement therapy products are given below.

1. Nicotine patches
You can wear one patch a day on your skin. These patches deliver small doses of nicotine to reduce your craving. You can use patches with reducing doses of nicotine. Patches help you to quit smoking in two or three months.

2. Nicotine gum
You not only keep your mouth occupied by chewing nicotine gums, but the small dose of nicotine also reduces the need for a cigarette within five minutes. You can start with gums with more nicotine and gradually choose gums with less nicotine.

3. Lozenges
They work similar to gums, except it takes about 15 minutes to have an effect. You have to keep the lozenge in your mouth for some time. It satisfies the need for nicotine as they dissolve in your mouth. You can consume about twenty lozenges a day.

Prescription nicotine replacement therapy
Some may need more time or medical advice to quit, especially if they have been heavy smokers. Doctors prescribe medications that are more effective than over-the-counter products.

1. Patches
These contain higher doses of nicotine compared to over-the-counter products. It is ideal for those with severe addiction and is available only under a doctor’s prescription. As your craving reduces, you can begin to use over-the-counter patches with lesser amounts of nicotine.

2. Inhalers
They are pen-shaped inhalers that contain nicotine sprays. You can use them whenever you have a craving. You don’t inhale the nicotine.

3. Nasal sprays
With these, all you need to do is spray and allow the nicotine to enter the bloodstream. Inhaling nicotine can harm your sinuses.

4. Medication
Doctors prescribe medication that blocks nicotine receptors in the brain. Medication may not contain nicotine, though it can reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Chantix and Zyban are two medications that are effective in quitting smoking.