Suck this straw to quit smoking

A new nicotine replacement therapy has been developed to help smokers conquer their addiction by keeping their hands busy.

Researchers say the new device not only helps people combat nicotine withdrawal problems associated with giving up smoking, but also allows them to consume any drink they like while they are having the treatment.

For many of the three million people in the UK who will try to stop smoking over the next few months, one of the main obstacles to success will be the lack of something to do with their hands when they no longer hold a cigarette. A survey by lung specialists shows that to be one of the main reasons for failure.

The new device, which has successfully completed a clinical trial, is a way of providing both a nicotine replacement therapy and a substitute for the oral and hand activity associated with smoking.

The special plastic straw contains beads of nicotine at the base. The user sips any drink through the straw and swallows the nicotine beads.

The entire dose of nicotine is delivered in the first sip, and the empty straw, used just once, can be thrown away, chewed or manipulated to occupy the hand and mouth.

In the first stage of treatment, patients would use the device each time they craved a cigarette, up to ten to 15 times a day. Over a 12-week course of treatment, the number of straws and the dose of nicotine in each straw would be reduced until the individual-has successfully stopped smoking.

Trials carried out show that use of the device produced blood levels of nicotine that were the same or higher than those found with other nicotine replacement therapy products. Nicotine is considered to be a safe drug at low doses, and although it is the substance that contributes to tobacco dependence, it has not been linked to the life-threatening illnesses that result from smoking.

Recovery Pharmaceuticals, which is preparing for a phase three trial of the device, says the early indications are that smokers who have used it had reduced cravings for cigarettes, depending on the size of the dose and the time since the last dose.

Nicotine replacement therapy does work for some people. Patches have been around for more than a decade, and they deliver small, steady doses of nicotine into the blood to relieve some of the withdrawal symptoms, without the buzz that keeps smokers hooked, and without the hazardous tar and carbon monoxide.

The patch provides steady nicotine blood levels throughout the day and night when worn, and may also help prevent weight gain. Nicotine chewing gum also works by releasing nicotine into the bloodstream, and research suggests that chewing nine to 12 pieces a day controls the urge to smoke.

Success rates for nicotine replacement therapy vary from ten to 25 per cent, but when combined with counselling the success rate can go up to 40 per cent.

The new device is said to be the first pharmacotherapy device - one that combines drug treatment with cognitive therapy.