Quitting smoking for good is no mean feat. However, several tools are available to aid this process, one of them being nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). NRT products such as patches, gum, and lozenges are some of the most widely preferred ways to give up smoking. While patches offer slow progress, the effect lasts much longer than quick fixes such as gum, sprays, and lozenges that take care of immediate cravings. We have compiled a list of products that are used to manage the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking.

• Nicotine patch

A nicotine patch slowly releases nicotine into the body through the skin to keep your nicotine cravings at bay. It’s used on a hairless area of the skin, anywhere between the neck and waist, (preferably on the chest or upper arm). It can be worn throughout the day; and heavy smokers can choose a patch with a higher strength. People with strong morning cravings should ideally wear a patch through the night.

• Nicotine gum

This nicotine replacement product releases nicotine that is absorbed through the lining of the mouth. The most effective way to consume nicotine gum is to rest it between the lining of the gum and cheek, and continue to do so even after it gives a tingling sensation. The two strengths that nicotine gums are made available at are two mg for those who smoke less than 25 cigarettes a day and four mg for those who smoke more than 25.

• Nicotine inhaler

Nicotine inhalers come in small plastic tubes that have a nicotine cartridge and mouthpiece. The nicotine present in the cartridge travels to the mouth and throat when inhaled. Nicotine inhalers act faster as compared to gum.

• Nasal spray

Nasal sprays are the strongest form of nicotine replacement therapy and are usually recommended to heavy smokers. The nicotine immediately dissolves in the bloodstream through the lining of the nose and offers immediate relief from strong cravings. Unlike congestion nasal sprays, nicotine nasal sprays are not to be inhaled; the tip needs to be inserted into each nostril, and the spray needs to be pumped for the nicotine to be released.

• Nicotine lozenge

Nicotine lozenges take up to 30 minutes to be fully dissolved in the mouth. They release nicotine upon becoming strong from being sucked. The short bursts of nicotine from lozenges relieve cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but these aren’t ideal if you’re suffering from ulcers.

• Nicotine microtab

As the name suggests, these are tiny tablets that easily dissolve under the tongue and release small bursts of nicotine. Be careful not to chew, suck, or swallow these tablets as doing either of the three will render it ineffective.

• Vape or e-cigarette

This tool mimics the hand-to-mouth act of smoking. Using a vape means that instead of inhaling smoke, you inhale nicotine in the form of vapor. Many switch to vaping in an attempt to completely quit smoking.

• Medication

Prescribed medications such as Chantix and Zyban aid in relieving nicotine cravings, and are taken two weeks before quitting smoking. These are generally prescribed by an expert.