PATCHES

What they are: Adhesive bandages that distribute an even flow of nicotine through the skin and into the bloodstream.

Where to get them: At the pharmacy with a doctor's prescription, if they're covered by your insurance. Or you can buy them over-the-counter at your local drugstore or grocery store.

How to use them: Start using the patches on the same day you quit smoking. Some brands come in 2 or 3 strengths. Start with the highest strength, then work down to the lowest one. Lighter smokers (those who smoke 15 cigarettes or less) should start with one of the lower strengths. Other brands come in a single strength. Whichever brand you use, put on a fresh patch each day. The schedule usually lasts 4-12 weeks. It is very important that you not smoke while using the patch.

GUM

What it is: Gum that releases nicotine into the bloodstream through the lining of the mouth.

Where to get it: At the pharmacy with a doctor's prescription, if it's covered by your insurance. Or you can buy it over-the-counter at your local drugstore or grocery store.

How to use it: Start using the gum on the same day you quit smoking. It comes in 2 strengths. If you smoke more than 25 cigarettes a day, start with 4mg. If you smoke 25 cigarettes or less, start with 2mg. Use it on a regular schedule, not in response to cravings. Chew a piece until you feel a peppery taste. Then park it between your gum and cheek until the peppery taste is gone. The schedule usually lasts 4-12 weeks. It is very important that you not smoke while using the gum.

MEDICATION

What it is: A prescription drug that can reduce withdrawal symptoms, such as the anti-depressant Wellbutrin S-R ® , also sold as Zyban ® . It contains no nicotine.

Where to get it: At the pharmacy, with a doctor's prescription.

How to use it: For Zyban, begin taking it 1-2 weeks before your quit day. Unless instructed otherwise by your doctor, take a 150mg tablet once daily for three days. After that, take twice daily. The schedule lasts 7-12 weeks. It can be used in combination with the nicotine patches or gum. But the patches or gum should not be started until your Quit Day.