Is it safe to use stop-smoking products during pregnancy?

Talk to your health care provider about the risks and benefits of using nicotine replacement products — such as a nicotine patch or inhaler or nicotine gum, lozenges or nasal spray. Considering the known harms of continuing to smoke during pregnancy and the benefits of quitting, nicotine replacement products might be an option for those who are unable to quit or who are at high risk of continuing to smoke. This might include those who smoke more than 10 cigarettes a day, those who are smoking later in pregnancy, and those who have been unsuccessful in a previous attempt to stop smoking.

Many nicotine replacement products are available over-the-counter. Start with the lowest dose possible. If you choose to use the nicotine patch, minimize your baby's exposure to nicotine by removing the patch while you sleep. As your cravings and withdrawal symptoms fade, work with your health care provider to gradually reduce the nicotine replacement over time.

If you'd rather use a non-nicotine medication to stop smoking during pregnancy, the antidepressant bupropion (Zyban) might be an option. Work with your health care provider to weigh the risks and benefits.