Addiction Services

Where Do I Go For Help

Nicotine Replacement Therapies

Many people find that using a combination of treatment approaches can increase success in becoming and staying tobacco free. You may find it helpful to include medications such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in your plan.

The two best-known forms of NRT are the patch and gum. These medications replace some of the nicotine you have been getting from tobacco, so they help relieve physical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal and lessen your urge to use tobacco. This will help you feel more comfortable and in control, so you can concentrate on changing your thoughts and behaviours. This is the key to becoming and staying tobacco free.

NRT medications do not have the same addictive properties as tobacco products and are available without a prescription. They also do not contain the 4,000 chemical compounds found in tobacco smoke, so they are much safer to use than any tobacco product.

Some forms of medication, including NRT, may be provided to you at low or no cost when you participate in an Addiction Services program. Call the Addiction Services office nearest you to find out more. You can also call the Smokers' Helpline for information on stopping methods.

Other prescription medications are available that contain no nicotine and may be helpful to you in the stopping process. Talk with your healthcare provider to find out more.