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Over-the-counter (OTC) is a term known to one and all. OTC products are meant to be used by people without any prior consultation with the doctor. There must have been several instances where you would have opted for an OTC medication to cure common cold, flu or allergies. Now there are also available a few products which can help you quit smoking.

Nicotine replacement products double your chances of quitting by making you comfortable. You can easily withstand the nicotine withdrawal symptoms after quitting with the help of these products. They are:

Nicotine patch: As the name suggests, it is a small, self adhesive patch. It provides a steady release of nicotine in to your bloodstream through the outer layer of your skin. You can apply it anywhere between your waist and neck. But generally it is applied on the upper arm or shoulder. Though there are some advantages such as easy availability and usability, nicotine patches suffer from some disadvantages as well. For example, you can not quickly adjust the amount of nicotine in the patches according to your cravings. Its use involves some side effects such as headache, dizziness, upset stomach and blurred vision. Sometimes you may be unable to sleep as well.

Nicotine gum: Another OTC nicotine replacement product is nicotine gum. It is made of a special material called polacrilex. You have to chew the gum and hold the chewed gum between your gums and cheek to release nicotine which would satisfy your cravings.

Nicotine gum helps in satisfying your cravings but has some disadvantages as well. You may suffer from nausea or hiccups if you chew the gum too fast or you swallow the nicotine instead of holding it, as directed.

Nicotine lozenge: It is an OTC product which you can use discreetly to satisfy your cravings. It is like a candy. You are required to keep it between your gum and cheek and suck it slowly. You can use it as and when required. But, occasionally its use may lead to heartburns, nausea and dizziness.

Now that you have a fair idea of these OTC smoking cessation products, you can choose the best one for yourself easily.

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