NicoMeltz are nicotine strips designed to help patients quit smoking, cut back on smoking, or to ease cravings in circumstances when one is unable to smoke for a period of time. They also work for those wishing to quit or cut back on chewing tobacco.

Each NicoMeltz strip contains 2 mg nicotine, the equivalent to one full-flavored cigarette. Patients can also split or quarter strips for a smaller dose. Strips are sugar-free and come in a pleasant mint flavor.

Treatment Overview

NicoMeltz strips are designed to melt on the tongue in just seconds. The nicotine released from each strip is rapidly absorbed, easing cravings in just seconds. While nicotine itself does have some drawbacks, it is minimal compared to the numerous other chemicals found in cigarettes and chewing tobacco, plus the disadvantages of inhaling smoke.

Treatment varies to some extent on what NicoMeltz strips are being used for.

To alleviate temporary cravings when unable to smoke:

• Dissolve one strip on the tongue when craving a cigarette or chew.
• Do not exceed 24 strips in one day.

To cut back on smoking, or to quit entirely, NicoMeltz should be started when still smoking:

• Use a strip to delay or replace a cigarette for the first week or two.
• After the first week or two, start replacing cigarettes with strips, gradually reducing the amount smoked each day for several weeks.
• As smoking diminishes, try to also gradually reduce the amount of strips used.
• Some individuals are able to completely quit both smoking and strips by the end of month 3.
• Other individuals will need another month or two of strips to minimize cravings.
• Never use more than 24 strips in one day.

That's it! NicoMeltz are very simple to use, and they do work to alleviate cravings. They will not entirely eliminate all cravings, however, nor all withdrawal effects that some patients go through, though withdrawal symptoms will also be reduced to some extent. It is important that patients want to quit before starting treatment; some willpower is also needed.

Other methods, such as changing patterns that might trigger the desire for a cigarette, are also beneficial in quitting. Some patients find support groups helpful as well. There are many other techniques to be found on the internet regarding quitting.

Potential Side Effects

Nicotine aside, quitting smoking or chewing can produce some withdrawal symptoms, as there are many other addictive substances in cigarettes and chew, and it can be difficult to break habits like holding a cigarette or inhaling smoke even if the nicotine part is satiated. In other words, some patients will still feel some withdrawal symptoms, though they're not cause for medical concern unless they become severe, which is quite unlikely to occur.

The majority of side effects associated with NicoMeltz use are few and mild, including:

• Mild throat discomfort
• Nausea
• Stomach discomfort
• Hiccups
• Difficulty sleeping

If NicoMeltz strips are used regularly the above should quickly stop occurring. If side effects persist or become severe speak with a doctor or consider alternative products. If NicoMeltz are used sporadically when a patient is unable to smoke, side effects are more likely to occur. Not everyone will experience side effects, however.

Patients who do quit---or even cut back---cigarettes or chewing tobacco are at reduced risk of damage to the mouth, heart, arteries, and lungs. NicoMeltz is definitely worth a try!