Nicotine replacement therapy

Nicotine replacement therapy uses medicines to deliver nicotine without tobacco smoke, easing withdrawal while a person stops smoking.

Nicotine: Nicotine is an addictive stimulant found in tobacco that acts on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Replacement products supply this drug without the smoke and many toxic combustion products.
Smoking cessation: Smoking cessation is the process of stopping tobacco smoking, whether unaided or with support. NRT is used to reduce withdrawal and improve the chances of stopping.
Varenicline: Varenicline is a prescription medicine that partially activates and blocks nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Unlike NRT, it acts on nicotine receptors without supplying nicotine.
Nicotine withdrawal: Nicotine withdrawal is a set of physical and psychological symptoms that can follow reduced or stopped nicotine use. NRT reduces withdrawal symptoms while nicotine use is being discontinued.
Nicotine patch: A nicotine patch is a skin-applied medicine that releases nicotine gradually over many hours. Its steady delivery helps manage withdrawal between episodes of acute craving.
Nicotine dependence: Nicotine dependence is a pattern of nicotine use marked by craving, reduced control, and withdrawal. Dependence severity can guide the dose and duration of replacement treatment.
Bupropion: Bupropion is a prescription antidepressant also used to help people stop smoking. It supports cessation without delivering nicotine.
Smoking-related diseases: Smoking-related diseases are illnesses caused or worsened by exposure to tobacco smoke. Replacing cigarettes with NRT removes exposure to smoke, the main source of smoking-related disease risk.
Nicotine gum: Nicotine gum is a chewing medicine that releases nicotine for absorption through the lining of the mouth. Chewing offers a user-controlled dose for cravings that break through baseline treatment.
Combination nicotine replacement therapy: Combination nicotine replacement therapy uses a long-acting product with a short-acting nicotine product. The patch can provide baseline nicotine while gum or lozenges treat breakthrough cravings.

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