Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), often abbreviated as NRT, involves providing nicotine to the body through methods other than tobacco consumption, typically as part of a strategy to quit smoking.

Common forms of NRT include nicotine patches, which deliver nicotine through the skin, and nicotine gum, which releases nicotine when chewed. The main advantage of NRT is its ability to alleviate cravings in smokers, thus enabling them to refrain from smoking and avoid the harmful effects associated with tobacco use.

NRT facilitates the process of overcoming nicotine addiction by reducing the urge to smoke. Studies have shown that the rate of smoking relapse is 1.5–2 times lower when NRT is utilized compared to when it is not employed.

Nicotine patches are adhesive patches applied to the skin for the controlled release of nicotine. Nicotine gum, sprays, sublingual tablets, and lozenges deliver nicotine orally. Nicotine inhalers are devices that deliver nicotine through inhalation into the lungs and mucous membranes, particularly the throat.

While products like snus and nasal snuff also provide nicotine without smoking tobacco, they still carry negative health risks.