Is it hard to quit smoking? Let's talk about NRT (Nicotine Replacement Therapy)

How many times have you tried to quit smoking? But after a few days, you may feel the urge to light up again, along with the withdrawal symptoms. This is not your fault. The main reason for this is that your body and mind are addicted to the chemical nicotine in cigarettes. But don't worry, you don't have to go through this journey alone. Today we are talking about a very effective method that can be used to help you. That is nicotine replacement therapy , or as we medically call it , Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) .

Simply put, what is NRT?

NRT is a treatment method that uses products (e.g., chewing gum, patches) containing very low doses of nicotine to reduce the intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms you experience after you quit smoking. To be precise, it only delivers the chemical nicotine to the body in a controlled manner, without the thousands of dangerous toxins, such as carcinogens, found in cigarettes.

But it's important to remember this too. NRT only helps with physical symptoms. Smoking is a habit that is as much a physical one as it is a mental, emotional, and social one. Therefore, if you combine NRT with other methods, such as counseling, you are much more likely to quit smoking permanently.

Who is this treatment suitable for?

NRT is especially recommended for people who are severely addicted to nicotine and have a strong desire to quit smoking. To find out how addicted you are to nicotine, see if you have these symptoms.

Types of NRT products and how to use them

There are several types of NRT products. Some are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription from a doctor.

1. Nicotine Gum

These are like regular chewing gum. You can chew on them when you feel like having a cigarette.

• Usage: If you feel a peppery taste or tingling sensation when you chew the gum, hold the gum between your cheek and gums for about 30 minutes.
• Things to note: Chewing gum should be done at least 15 minutes after drinking a beverage like coffee, tea, or orange juice. You should plan to stop using it after about 12 weeks.

2. Nicotine Lozenges

These are like Strepsils for a sore throat. You put them in your mouth and let them slowly dissolve.

• Usage: Place the lozenge between your cheek and gum. As it dissolves, the nicotine is absorbed into your body.
• Things to note: Don't use more than one at a time. Like chewing gum, you should reduce the amount you use over time.

3. Nicotine Patch

This is like a patch that you stick on your skin. When you put it on in the morning, it releases small amounts of nicotine into your body throughout the day.

• Usage: Apply to clean, dry, hairless skin (e.g. upper chest, arm). Change the application site daily. Can be worn for 16 to 24 hours. No need to remove when bathing.
• Things to note: The strength of the patch that is right for you depends on the number of cigarettes you smoke per day.

4. Nicotine Inhaler

These definitely require a doctor's prescription . A device that looks like a plastic cigarette holder.

• Usage: You insert a cartridge containing nicotine and inhale (puff). However, it is not good to inhale deeply into your lungs. The nicotine is mostly absorbed from the back of your throat.
• Important: Do not confuse these with E-cigarettes (vaping). Inhalers are a medically approved treatment. Vaping is not an approved method for quitting smoking.

5. Nicotine Nasal Spray

This also requires a prescription . Because the nicotine in these is absorbed into the body very quickly, doctors only recommend them to severely addicted people.

• Usage: Spray into both nostrils. Nicotine levels increase within 5-10 minutes.
• Things to note: Since these can be addictive like cigarettes, it is extremely important to follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

Can NRT methods be used together?

Yes. Sometimes using more than one method can yield better results. For example:

• Long-term method: You can control withdrawal symptoms by wearing a nicotine patch throughout the day.
• A quick fix: If you suddenly have a craving for a cigarette, you can use nicotine gum or a lozenge.

But remember, before using two methods like this together, you should definitely talk to your doctor and ask which method is most suitable and safest for you.

Side effects and risks of NRTs

Each NRT product may have its own side effects. Therefore, read the instructions on the package carefully before using it. Some of the common side effects are listed in the table below.

Something to be very careful about: Nicotine Poisoning

This is the most dangerous thing. Smoking while using NRT products, or using more than the recommended amount of NRT , can increase nicotine levels in the body to toxic levels. Also, these products should be kept very safely away from small children and pets. Even a small amount ingested by them can be fatal.

Early symptoms of nicotine poisoning may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Excessive salivation
• Stomach ache
• Sweating
• Rapid heartbeat and rapid breathing (hyperpnea)
• Difficulty walking, loss of balance (ataxia)
• Tremors, headaches, and dizziness
• Seizures

What if NRT doesn't work?

Quitting smoking is not something you can do in one go. Sometimes you have to try several times. That's normal. If NRT doesn't work for you, take heart. You're not alone. Talk to your doctor again. He or she may be able to recommend a different NRT product, a different dosage, or a different treatment regimen.

In addition to NRT, there are other nicotine-free pills, such as varenicline and bupropion, that can help you quit smoking. Your doctor may recommend using one of these pills in conjunction with NRT.

It is also very important to address the psychological and social aspects of the smoking habit. Therefore, participating in counseling programs provides great relief and strength. The most important thing is not to give up.

Smoking, Nicotine, NRT, Cigarette Cessation, Nicotine Replacement Therapy, Nicotine Gum, Nicotine Patch