Smokeless Alternatives – Smoking cessation can be a difficult process, as you have to resist the urge to smoke and deal with withdrawal symptoms. This is because many smokers’ bodies have got used to effect of nicotine as a stimulant and energy booster.
In curbing these cravings, smokers can apply the same approach used to manage coffee addiction. A previous post about ‘Coffee Alternatives’ explains how other drinks like golden milk and black tea can be traded in for coffee. They give the same energizing effect as they also contain caffeine, but without the negative effects of jitters and palpitations from coffee.
In a similar manner, individuals attempting to quit smoking can look into smokeless alternatives that contain nicotine. These products can help suppress or eliminate smoking urges without subjecting the user to the health risks associated with smoking.

Nicotine Gum

Recognized as a nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) product, nicotine gum is an accessible alternative since it can be bought over the counter. It is also considered a fast-acting NRT that helps overcome intense nicotine cravings throughout the day.
While nicotine gum looks like regular chewing gum, it only delivers nicotine effectively when users employ the ‘chew-and-park’ method. Once you feel a tingling sensation from the nicotine, you have to stop chewing and let it rest between your cheek and gums. This helps the body absorb the nicotine properly. The process can remain repeated for a few times until the nicotine effect eventually wears off, which takes about 30 minutes.
Nicotine gum also comes in different flavors and doses, so users can adjust their dosage depending on the strength and/or frequency of cravings. However, a study published in the Nicotine & Tobacco Research journal warns against a sudden decrease in gum use, as it can play a role in heightening the risk of relapse within 1-2 days.
Instead, nicotine gum users can look into the recommended dosage schedule of the brand they use. For example, Nicorette suggests sticking to at least 9 pieces of gum a day for the first six weeks, before eventually reducing consumption.

Nicotine Pouches

Meanwhile, nicotine pouches are also oral NRTs like nicotine gum, but the nicotine delivery and experience are different. There is faster and more direct nicotine absorption as pouch remain simply tucked beneath the upper lip. This makes the nicotine relief last longer, and pouches can take effect for an hour at most. Additionally, pouches are easier and less inconvenient to dispose of after use.
Nicotine pouches also come in a variety of flavors to choose from. But there is a wider spectrum of strengths and doses offered. Whereas nicotine gums are typically between 2mg to 6mg, the selection of popular pouch brands like ZYN, VELO. And Rogue available on Prilla range from light (2mg-4mg) to extra strong (8mg-15mg).
As such, smokers trying to quit can set a dosage schedule that is more specific and in line with their previous cigarette intake. When cravings remain adequately curbed with help of nicotine pouches, relapses are less likely to happen.

Nicotine Patches

Unlike oral and fast-acting gums and pouches, nicotine patches remain applied on skin. And can deliver nicotine into the bloodstream in slow yet steady intervals. Patches can much more effective when used in conjunction with gum and pouches. As their fixed delivery format complements the quick nicotine release and absorption from oral NRTs.
The manufacturer of nicotine patch brand NicoDerm has also recently released a customized listening experience where smokers can replace cigarettes with music. In lieu of smoke breaks, those who are attempting to quit smoking can instead tap into the power of music therapy to help them in their journey towards improved health and a better quality of life.
Regardless of which of these smokeless alternatives you end up using. Remember that NRTs cannot do all the work for you. The ultimate goal remains to eliminate your triggers. So you can quit smoking for good and adopt a much healthier lifestyle.