Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Quitting smoking can be tough, but in Australia, there are effective treatments available. With support from your Pharmacist, you can stop smoking and experience the health benefits of being smoke-free.
It's never too late to quit, regardless of your age or smoking history. Immediate and long-term benefits await, including improved health, reduced risks, and financial savings. Reach out to your Pharmacist for guidance and explore the available treatments.
Many individuals who successfully quit smoking have made multiple attempts before achieving long-term abstinence. Fortunately, there are several options available to increase your chances of quitting, including medications used alone or in conjunction with professional counseling.
These options include:
By exploring these options and finding the right combination for your needs, you can enhance your chances of successfully quitting smoking. Remember, persistence and utilizing available resources can greatly contribute to your journey towards a smoke-free life.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
NRT (Nicotine Replacement Therapy) serves as a substitute for the nicotine found in cigarettes, helping you quit smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It is considered a recommended first-line treatment option for smoking cessation, especially when combined with counseling, as it enhances the chances of success.
NRT is available in various forms, including:
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• Patches (applied to the skin) • Chewing gum • Lozenges • Mouth sprays • Inhalers |
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Using multiple types of NRT simultaneously often yields better results than relying on a single form. For example, you might combine a daily nicotine patch with a nicotine inhaler or gum. You can easily obtain NRT over the counter from your local Michael’s Chemist Pharmacy without a prescription. Additionally, nicotine patches can be obtained through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) with a prescription from your GP. Take advantage of these accessible options to start your journey towards a smoke-free life.
Prescription Medicine
In Australia, there are two prescription medications specifically designed to address nicotine dependence:
Varenicline (CHAMPIX): This oral tablet works by reducing the pleasure derived from smoking.
Bupropion (ZYBAN): Also an oral tablet, this medication is an antidepressant that can aid in smoking cessation.
Both Varenicline and Bupropion can be obtained from your local Michael's Chemist Pharmacy with a prescription from your GP. It is important to note that these medications are typically not taken concurrently. Speak with your healthcare provider to determine which option is most suitable for your needs and to discuss the appropriate course of treatment.
Nicotine Vaping Products (E-Cigarettes)
Nicotine vaping products (NVPs) offer a unique form of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) that sets them apart from other NRT options. They are designed to deliver nicotine rapidly, resembling the experience of smoking a cigarette. This characteristic can enhance treatment adherence for many patients.
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NVPs, like other NRT methods, carry lower health risks than traditional cigarettes as they deliver nicotine through inhaled aerosol rather than smoke. |
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Discover prescription solutions at your nearby Michael's Chemist Pharmacy, where we are ready to fulfill your prescriptions. If previous attempts to address your health needs have proven unsuccessful, we recommend consulting with your GP to explore whether alternative options are a fitting choice for you. Take the next step towards achieving your health goals by reaching out to us or your healthcare provider today.