For the 26 per cent of all Canadian adults who smoke, this development means that both light and heavy smokers will have greater and easier access to scientifically-proven stop smoking aids. Nicorette Plus 4 mg, a stronger formulation for those who smoke more than 25 cigarettes per day, was available only by prescription. Unfortunately, addiction to nicotine often means that the desire to quit is not enough. As Nicorette is now available without a prescription in the majority of Canadian pharmacies, smokers can visit their local pharmacy and obtain it from the shelf. Nicorette works by helping to control cravings for nicotine.
Smokers bite on the gum when they feel a craving for a cigarette.
The gum releases a low level of nicotine into the blood, which reduces the body's craving without having to smoke a cigarette. While using Nicorette to help control the intense cravings for nicotine, smokers can focus on breaking the behavioural and psychological aspects of the smoking habit. Nicorette is intended as a temporary aid in cushioning the patient against the severe nicotine withdrawal symptoms they experience when trying to quit. The irritability, anxiety and difficulty with concentration that often develop with smoking cessation are reduced when nicotine from Nicorette is absorbed into the body. The number of Nicorette pieces chewed is gradually decreased over a period of time, until eventually the cravings stop and the smoker no longer feels the urge to smoke.