Nicotine replacement therapy
Nicotine replacement therapy NRT is safe and effective and when used in isolation (without additional behavioural support) approximately doubles the chances of long-term abstinence.45, 46 There are six different types of NRT: patch (24hr and 16hr), gum, lozenge, microtab, nasal spray and inhalator. There is no evidence to suggest that one type of NRT is more effective than another so product selection should be guided by client preference
Effectiveness of different forms of nicotine replacement therapy
RR: risk ratio of abstinence relative to control
Nrt with special population groups
Following a review by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in 2005, NRT can now be used by adolescents aged 12+, pregnant women and people with cardiovascular disease.
ComBiNatioN tHerapy
Evidence rating:
A combination of NRT products (combination therapy) has been shown to have a moderate advantage over using just one product.48,49 It is also considered cost effective.50 NHS Stop Smoking Services should therefore offer clients combination therapy whenever appropriate: for example, to people with a high level of dependence on nicotine or who have found single forms of NRT inadequate in the past.
