Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
When people quit smoking, they usually experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include cravings to smoke, irritability, increased tension and difficulty concentrating and sleeping.
What is NRT?
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is an approved and effective medication for quitting smoking. It works by giving a small, controlled amount of nicotine without the other harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke. It is also far less addictive than smoking. This small amount of nicotine reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to stay on track when you quit.
Using NRT can increase your chances of quitting by 50–70%
Most people who use these products use them for the first few weeks after quitting. Research shows that NRT is safe and effective. When used appropriately, you’re unlikely to become dependent on NRT.
If you’re having trouble quitting cold turkey or cutting down, NRT can give you an extra boost.
The early stages of your quit journey might be particularly challenging, so using NRT can keep you on track. If you can manage your cravings with NRT, you’re less likely to reach for tobacco.
Types of nicotine replacement therapy
The full range of NRT products available over the counter in pharmacies and supermarkets includes nicotine patches, gum, oral sprays, inhalers, lozenges and tablets.
Chat with your pharmacist or doctor to figure out the best products for you.
NRT products are cheaper if they’re prescribed by your doctor, and some Aboriginal health services can provide free NRT products. Your doctor may also prescribe other forms of NRT.
Did you know?
Tobacco smoke contains all kinds of nasties that can cause cancer: tar, harmful chemicals and carbon monoxide. While nicotine is addictive and can be harmful to health, it hasn’t been found to cause cancer. That’s why NRT is used to help you quit smoking.
Nicotine replacement therapy benefits
If nicotine withdrawal symptoms are bumps in the road, NRT is a way to even out the surface and make for a smoother trip.
The main benefits of NRT:
- Easy and inconspicuous to use
- Backed by research
- Contains less nicotine than tobacco
Nicotine replacement therapy is an evidence-based way to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms which can make it easier to stop smoking. Discuss your NRT needs with your doctor or pharmacist.
More information
Using two NRT products instead of one can be a successful strategy. This is known as combination therapy. For example, you might find that cravings are tricky to deal with first thing in the morning, before your nicotine patch is working.
With combination therapy, you can take a faster-acting oral NRT product to handle sudden cravings and use a nicotine patch during the day.
Speak with a pharmacist or health professional before starting combination therapy, to check that this type of therapy is suitable for you.
The recommended timeframe for combination therapy is the same as for a single form of NRT, 8 to 12 weeks.
These adhesive patches worn on your arm slowly release nicotine through the skin. They need a few hours to take effect and give a steady dose of nicotine throughout the day.
Combining a slow-release patch with a fast-acting oral NRT product is a very effective way to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms. Nicotine patches can be used several weeks before quitting to help people who smoke prepare to quit.
Some nicotine patches are available on a subsidised script through a doctor.
Oral forms of NRT can be taken on a regular basis in anticipation of triggers or when cravings occur.
Some oral NRT products are available on a subsidised script through a doctor.
With these forms of NRT, nicotine is absorbed through the mouth’s lining. Use them on demand when you experience cravings or at times you’d typically smoke.
Mouth sprays are another on-demand NRT. Nicotine is absorbed through the lining of the mouth. Mouth sprays promote a faster absorption of nicotine in the body and may reduce cravings faster.
If you miss the hand-to-mouth action of smoking, a nicotine inhaler may help. A plastic mouthpiece and tube release nicotine vapour absorbed through your mouth and throat.
A nicotine inhalator is not an e-cigarette/vape and it doesn’t contain the chemicals found in tobacco or vapes.
Join iCanQuit and create a personalised Quit plan based on the most suitable quit methods for you.
Call Quitline (or speak to your GP) for more information about NRT.