| depend on what and when your triggers occur. As a general rule, if your triggers are often and follow a regular pattern throughout the day, the nicotine patches might be the best for you. The patches are designed to provide you with a constant amount of nicotine all day long. This helps to reduce the physical cravings for nicotine. It is NOT a good idea to smoke while wearing a patch; you might get more nicotine than you are accustomed to. Other side effects include skin irritation and difficulty sleeping. Ask your Peoples Pharmacist for help in selecting which nicotine patch might be right for you. ....If your triggers are fewer and tend to occur in |
clusters, the nicotine gum or inhaler might be a better idea. These products will provide you with nicotine only when you needed it. Ask your Peoples Pharmacist about the proper technique for using the nicotine gum or inhalers. These products are not as straightforward as they might appear to be.
.... Here are a few more words of advice. If you must smoke immediately upon waking up or smoke just before bed, you should consult your physician before deciding to quit. This indicates a strong physical addiction and you may require prescription medications. Don’t get discouraged if you are unable to quit |
at your first attempt. This is not unusual. Learn where your plan (NOT YOU) went wrong and tryagain next month. People often succeed after a few attempts. Once you are smoke free, constantly remind yourself and the people around you, that you are a nonsmoker. Also, after one month give yourself a small reward for quitting smoking; perhaps a nice dinner out or a new iPod. Then promise yourself a larger reward after six months. Use the money you saved to go on vacation; you earned it and deserve it. Good luck.
Written By Ian Lloyd, Pharmacist & Chartered Herbalist
Peoples Pharmacy, Victoria |
WHERE PEOPLE COME FIRST