Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a treatment in which individuals who are trying to quit smoking are given small doses of nicotine through an alternative delivery system. The purpose of the nicotine therapy is to relieve, or eliminate, some of the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking cessation. NRT is sometimes referred to as tobacco-nicotine replacement therapy.
Individuals who are attempting to stop smoking may experience cravings or withdrawal symptoms that make stopping difficult. Nicotine replacement therapies help alleviate these symptoms by steadily releasing a small dose of nicotine into the person’s body over time. Products used to deliver these nicotine doses include gums, inhalers, lozenges, nasal sprays and skin patches. Because some of these forms deliver nicotine to the brain faster than others, a combination of products may be used. NRT may be used in combination with counseling or other therapies as well. NRT has been found to increase a smoker’s chances of stopping by up to 20% over the non-use of such therapy.
Synonyms
Tobacco-Nicotine Replacement Therapy
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