stop smoking aids

As smokers and ex-smokers, we know what it's like to be bombarded with  quit smoking products or stop smoking programs. Wading through ...

As smokers and ex-smokers, we know what it's like to be bombarded with  quit smoking products or stop smoking programs. Wading through all of the various tools, techniques and smoking cessation products can be overwhelming, especially if you are in the middle of the stressful withdrawal process. So we decided to put together a clear-cut selection of the best quit smoking aids on the market. Just remmeber that this is not a ranked list, you may have to try a few before you find the tool that works for you. So withour further adieu, here is our list:
1. Electronic Cigarettes
E-CigarettesE-cigarettes come in two main forms; the first, a nicotine-containing e-cigarette, and the second, an e-cigarette that has no nicotine but still creates the vapor. For individuals who have difficulty with stress when quitting smoking, simply having a non-nicotine-containing e-cigarette can distract enough to get through a stressful situation without smoking. For others, e-cigarettes that include
nicotine can provide a way to get their nicotine fix while minimizing exposure to the many harmful chemicals found in cigarettes, like tar and carbon monoxide. While using a nicotine-based e-cigarette isn't exactly quitting cold turkey, it is a much less harmful way to consume nicotine. And that's why it's on our list as one of the best quit smoking aids of the year.

How to Use E-Cigarettes

The directions for each E-cigarette may vary, depending on the brand you choose. Most E-cigarettes will require you to open the back of the e-cigarette, and load a small nicotine or water vapor cartridge into a cylindrical hole. From there, you replace the cap, and puff on the cigarette as you normally would. Whether you choose to use nicotine or not, you will get nice big plumes of vapor that will help you forget all about your real cigarettes.
Nicotine Gum
2. Nicotine Gum
Much like the nicotine-containing e-cigarette, nicotine gum delivers a small dose of nicotine when chewed. It, too, contains only the gum itself and nicotine. Nicotine gum is helpful to those who wish to be able to deliver a dose of nicotine anywhere, and can help to temporarily reduce the stress of cravings or stressful situations. In the first few weeks after you quit, nicotine gum can help to prevent a relapse while you deal with stress.


How to Use Nicotine Gum

The directions for using most brands of nicotine gum are quite simple. Nicotine gum is not chewed in the same manner as regular gum; instead, most nicotine gum requires a unique chewing method. Many brands refer to this as "chew and park." This is a reference to the fact that quitters should chew the gum several times, and then place it to rest between the gum and the lower lip. This allows the nicotine to be delivered sublingually, as it is absorbed through the thin mouth tissues. You should not eat or drink anything for 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after using nicotine gum.
 
3. Nicotine Inhalers
Nicotine inhalers work in the same way that e-cigarettes work, but they do not appear to "smoke" in the same way. They are not shaped or designed to look like cigarettes, and may be a better choice for those working in smoke-free environments. Inhalers deliver a small dose of nicotine each time the user "puffs" on them. They are quite similar to the e-cigarette, but do not mimic the behaviors associated with smoking or the look of a cigarette in quite the same manner.

How to Use Nicotine Inhalers

Check the directions on your nicotine inhaler package for delivery instructions. Most nicotine inhalers work in a similar way to e-cigarettes; you will need to load a cartridge containing nicotine into the back of the inhaler, after unscrewing the cap. The cap is then placed back onto the container. The user places the inhalation end of the device into their mouth, and literally "inhales" or breaths in the nicotine through the device.
 
4. Nicotine Patches
Nicotine PatchesWearing a nicotine patch can help to ease you down from cigarettes, and may prevent some of the stress that is directly associated with nicotine withdrawal. Most users use a single patch per day, wearing it from the moment they wake up until the moment they go to sleep. The patch helps to smooth out the sudden drop of nicotine levels in the blood. Patches are applied to the skin, and contain a small amount of nicotine in the central area of the patch.

How to Use Nicotine Patches

To use your nicotine patch, most brands will require you to place the patch directly on clean skin. It can be helpful to swab the area with an alcohol swab prior to application; this is especially true if you have difficulty keeping the patch on during the day. Because the patch may cause irritation for those with sensitive skin, you should keep an eye on your patch for the first 24-48 hours of use. If you notice very red skin, blistering, or experience intense burning or itching, you should remove the patch immediately. Most patches are used for 12 - 24 hours at a time, and come in a variety of dosages.
 
5. Nicotine Mouth Spray
Nicotine mouth spray works by delivering a small dose of nicotine sublingually, or via the gums and thin skin inside the mouth. Usually, the spray is flavored to reduce the bitter flavor of the nicotine itself. These sprays can be used as often as you would normally smoke a cigarette, and can be very helpful for warding off cravings.

How to Use Nicotine Mouth Spray

You should not use nicotine mouth spray if you have smoked in the last 12 hours. You will then need to hold the dispenser towards your open mouth, with your finger on the depressor. Then, press down on the depressor up to two times. If you find that the dispenser is not releasing any mist, try pointing it away from your face and pushing on the depressor several times in rapid succession. This will prime the pump if it hasn't been used frequently. You may use a maximum of two sprays at a time, for a maximum of 4 sprays per hour. You should not exceed 64 sprays in a 24-hour period.
 
6. Psychotherapy
Starting a therapeutic relationship with a therapist is a great way to gain support through the quitting process. While it may seem like quitting smoking is "not serious enough" to seek therapy for, many find the guidance invaluable. Short-term therapy with a counselor or psychologist can help you to address each trigger as it occurs without becoming overwhelmed and vaving in to your cravings. Therapy can also help you to form coping skills for the future, preventing you from making healthier, more beneficial choices.
7. Smartphone Apps
Technology is very helpful to the quitter with a smartphone. Today, many apps exist to help these individuals stay on track and say no to cigarettes. Apps are available for Android, iPhone, Windows Mobile, and Blackberry devices, as well as iPad and IPod. Several of the most popular smoking cessation apps include the following:
These apps all offer a slightly different experience to the end user who is quitting, but can be an invaluable way to stay on track while on the go.
These are the smoking cessation tools that we approve of (besides maybe Chantix). So go out there and see if anything works for you. You can quit and these tools are all great resources to make it happen! And also make sure to check out our 15 Benefits of Quitting Smoking!
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