you may experience nicotine cravings and research has shown that these are often more severe than you expect . Don't let that put you off though - there are several products on the market to help control withdrawal symptoms. Many are free on prescription from your GP. Nicotine Replacement Therapy can help you by reducing your nicotine cravings. NRT has been shown to double your chances of successfully quitting. It is also less addictive than smoking and doesn't cause cancer. NRT is available on prescription or over the counter as gum, patches, tablets, lozenges, nasal spray or inhalers. You usually take a 10-12 week course. Zyban and Champix are other medicines that can help you give up smoking. They don't contain nicotine. Instead, they work by reducing your desire to smoke and relieving withdrawal symptoms. Zyban and Champix are only available on prescription and are not suitable for everyone. So talk to your doctor if you want to find out more. Putting on weight Many people are worried that when they give up smoking they may put on weight . This may be because: Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666) and the Isle of Man (1103). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: Angel Building, 407 St John Street, London EC1V 4AD.