Smoking treatments

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)

The main reason that people smoke is because they are addicted to nicotine.

NRT is a medication that provides you with a low level of nicotine, without the tar, carbon monoxide and other poisonous chemicals present in tobacco smoke.

It can help reduce unpleasant withdrawal effects, such as bad moods and cravings , which may occur when you stop smoking.

Where to get it and how to use it

NRTcan bebought from pharmacies and some shops. It's also available on prescription from a doctor or NHS stop smoking service.

It's available as:

skinpatches
chewing gum
inhalators (which look likeplastic cigarettes)
tablets, oral stripsand lozenges
nasal and mouth spray

Patches release nicotine slowly.Some are worn all the time and some should be taken off at night. Inhalators, gum and sprays act more quickly and may be better for alleviating cravings.

There's no evidence that any single type of NRT is more effective than another. But there is good evidence to show that using a combination of NRT is more effective than using a single product.

Often the best way to use NRT is to combine a patch with a faster acting form such as gum, inhalator or nasal spray.

Treatment with NRT usually lasts 8-12 weeks, before you gradually reduce the dose and eventually stop.

Who can use it

Most people are able to use NRT, including:

adults and children over 12 years of age although children under 18 shouldn't use the lozenges without getting medical advice first
pregnant women your doctor may suggest NRT if they think it would help you quit; read more about stopping smoking in pregnancy
breastfeeding women your doctor can advise you how to do this safely

Always read the packet or leaflet before using NRT to check whether it's suitable for you.

Sometimes it may beadvisable to get medical advice first, for example if you have kidney or liver problems , or you've recently had a Myocardial infarction or stroke .