Nicotine replacement therapy

Here, pharmacist James Wood from Wicker Pharmacy in Sheffield gives the low-down on NRT and stop-smoking aids

Q. How do NRT products work?

A. They provide a way of getting nicotine into the bloodstream without smoking. Nicotine is a drug inhaled from the tobacco contained within cigarettes. Most regular smokers are addicted to nicotine.

Q. What are the different types of NRT products available over the counter?

A. There are many different types of NRT available over the counter from your local community pharmacy; they are also available on prescription too. NRT is available in patches, gums (including different flavours), lozenges, inhalers, nasal sprays and tablets.

Q. Which types of NRT are most suitable for which types of smokers?

A. The choice of NRT product often comes down to personal preference but there are some advantages to using certain NRT products, depending on how you smoke. Here are just a few examples:

• Nicotine inhaler: this resembles an ordinary cigarette and may be particularly useful if you miss the physical action of smoking
• Nicotine tablets/lozenges: these dissolve under the tongue relatively quickly, so they are easy to use
• Patches: these provide a constant dose of nicotine, and the 24-hour patch can be particularly useful if you get early morning cravings

When using any NRT product, always carefully read the instructions provided on the pack or seek the advice of a doctor, nurse or your pharmacist.

Q. Can you combine different NRT products - for instance, if you had strong cravings for a cigarette, can you use the gum while you're wearing a patch?

A. Yes, you can combine NRT products particularly if your withdrawal symptoms are severe. A common combination may include a patch to provide a steady background level of nicotine.

Q. Are NRT products safe for everyone to use?

A. NRT products are much safer than smoking as they don't contain the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. Always discuss NRT choices with a healthcare professional if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Q. Do they have side effects?

A. NRT have very few interactions, but if you are taking other medicines you should always inform the doctor, nurse or pharmacist providing you with stop-smoking advice.

Q. What should you do when you've finished with NRT products - could the patches, for instance, be dangerous if you don't dispose of them correctly?

A. All unused medicines should always be returned to a community pharmacy for safe disposal and to ensure that medicines don't get into the wrong hands. All medicines including NRT should be kept out of the reach and sight of children.