From the Guidelines
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is effective for smoking cessation. According to the evidence, all single forms of NRT significantly improved cessation rates at 6 months or more, with relative risks (RR) ranging from 1.49 for gum to 1.95 for tablets or lozenges 1. The most effective forms of NRT include:
- Nicotine gum (2mg or 4mg)
- Nicotine lozenges (2mg or 4mg)
- Nicotine transdermal patches
- Nicotine inhalers
- Nicotine nasal spray Using a combination of NRT products, such as combining short-acting plus long-acting forms of NRT, has been found to be more effective than using a single form of NRT 1. Additionally, combining NRT with other medications, such as bupropion or varenicline, may also be effective, although the evidence is mixed 1. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for individual smoking cessation, as they can help choose the most suitable medication and dosage, such as bupropion (150mg twice daily) or varenicline (1mg twice daily), and provide guidance on how to use them effectively 1.
From the Research
Effectiveness of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) for Smoking Cessation
- NRT is recommended as an effective alternative for smoking cessation therapy, especially when combined with behavioral interventions 2
- Combining NRT with behavioral support increases smoking cessation success compared to a minimal intervention or usual care 3
- NRT and counseling appear to produce additive or less than additive effects when combined, with additive effects generally apparent in the number of smokers who survive the first few weeks without smoking 4
- The combination therapy of counseling and medication, including NRT, is very important in smoking cessation treatment 5
- NRT, especially when patches are combined with fast-acting forms like gum, is effective for smoking cessation 6
Comparison with Other Interventions
- NRT is as effective as other pharmacotherapies, such as varenicline, cytisine, and bupropion, for smoking cessation 6
- Nicotine e-cigarettes are also effective for smoking cessation, with similar magnitude of effects to varenicline, cytisine, and NRT 6
- Behavioral counseling and financial incentives are also effective for smoking cessation 6
Outcome Measures
- The rate of successful smoking cessation at 1 year is up to 24% when receiving pharmacological treatment and behavioral support 2
- Combining pharmacotherapy and behavioral support increases smoking cessation success, with a risk ratio of 1.83 compared to usual care, brief advice, or less intensive behavioral support 3