How does combination therapy work?
Different combinations of medications work differently.
For example, patch + gum. The nicotine patch can be used to provide a steady level of nicotine to control most withdrawal symptoms, and the gum can be used when nicotine from the patch does not control cravings or other symptoms.
Or, varenicline + lozenge. Varenicline blocks the pleasant effects of nicotine from smoking on the brain, and the lozenge can be used for breakthrough cravings.
Long-acting medications
Long-acting medications make withdrawal symptoms easier to manage over a longer period of time. They include:
Short-acting medications
Short-acting medications can help you cope with cravings that are not controlled by a long-acting medication (sometimes called “breakthrough cravings”). Short-acting medications include:
How can I get combination therapy?
- Many states make quitting medications available through a state quitline. Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW to find out what is available in your state.
- If you have insurance, most health plans offer quitting medication at no or very low cost to members. Call the number on the back of your insurance card to check on your benefits. Some insurance plans require a prescription from your health care provider to cover the cost of the medications.
- Nicotine medications (patches, gum, and lozenges) are available for sale without a prescription at any pharmacy, as well as many other stores such as Target, Walmart, Dollar General, etc. They can also be ordered on Amazon.
- Generic brands are available for a much lower price than brand-name options.