Myths and Facts About Nicotine Replacement Therapy

There are several ways to quit smoking.

You can go cold turkey or use medications to help you quit. The most common type of medicine used for smoking cessation is nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). NRT replaces the nicotine supplied by cigarettes through a skin patch, gum, lozenge, nasal spray or inhaler. It delivers a lower dose of nicotine without many of the toxins found in cigarettes. NRT is designed to reduce cravings and lessen the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Some forms of NRT are available over-the-counter, while others are only available with a prescription. NRT has been shown to help people quit smoking, but there are many myths that surround the treatment. Get the facts here.

Myth: NRT doesn't work.
Fact: NRT is very effective. In fact, studies show that all forms of NRT increase the chances of quitting successfully—by 50-60%. The odds of staying smoke-free for six months or more are higher when you use NRT as directed.

Myth: NRT keeps you addicted to nicotine, so you may as well continue to smoke cigarettes.
Fact: The amount of nicotine in NRT products is far less than what is in cigarettes, and it's supplied to the body more slowly. What's more, research shows that the chance of developing a long-term addiction to NRT is very low. NRT doesn't contain as many harmful chemicals as cigarettes do, which also makes NRT a better option.

Myth: NRT keeps you from having withdrawal symptoms.
Fact: While NRT lessens the intensity of withdrawal symptoms, it doesn't fully stop them. You may still experience some symptoms of withdrawal if you use NRT, especially in the first week or two after you stop smoking. NRT has been shown to help with certain withdrawal symptoms, including cravings, irritability, anger, frustration, anxiety, hunger and trouble sleeping.

Myth You can only use one NRT product at a time.
Fact: Many NRT products can be used together. Some people may use a long-acting NRT patch and add a short-acting NRT gum or lozenge when cravings are especially intense, for instance. Talk to your health care provider before using more than one NRT product at the same time.

Myth: NRT is expensive.
Fact: Many states offer free NRT through their quit lines. (Check out the North American Quitline Consortium's map to find smoking support in your state.) Or you may qualify for free NRT through Medicare, Medicaid, private health insurance plans or employee assistance programs. Even if you can't get NRT free of cost, it's still much cheaper than smoking cigarettes in the long run. People often smoke cigarettes for years, but only need NRT for a short amount of time.

Myth: You cannot use NRT if you have a medical condition.
Fact: Many people with existing health issues, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, are able to include NRT in their plan to quit smoking. However, check with your health care provider first before using NRT, especially if you're pregnant or have a medical condition. If your health care provider says NRT isn't right for you, work with them to find a safe way to quit smoking.

NRT can help you boost your chance of quitting successfully. Each type is used in a different way and comes with unique side effects. Ask your health care provider which form of NRT is best for you. Use it as directed so you can increase your chance of kicking the habit for good.

If you or someone you care about wants to quit smoking, health care providers at the In-Store Clinics and MDLive are on hand to support you in your plans to be tobacco-free from cigarettes or other forms of tobacco. There are additional educational materials available in the Walgreens Answer Centers on walgreens.com to support you as well.

Published on October 29, 2019

Sources:

"Dispelling Myths About Nicotine Replacement Therapy," Smokefree.gov. Web. 29 June 2018. https://smokefree.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/mythsaboutNRTfactsheet.pdf

"Busting NRT Myths," Smokefree.gov. Web. 29 June 2018. https://smokefree.gov/tools-tips/how-to-quit/busting-nrt-myths

"Nicotine Replacement Therapy," MedlinePlus. Web. 29 June 2018. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007438.htm

"Smoking Cessation Medications," MedlinePlus. Web. 29 June 2018. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007439.htm

North American Quitline Consortium. Web. 29 June 2018. https://map.naquitline.org/