Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)

Using Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is a safe and effective way to help you get through the cravings and withdrawal symptoms of stopping smoking, increasing your chances of quitting for good.

How does NRT work?

NRT uses products that give your body some of the nicotine that can come from tobacco smoke, but in a smaller amount over a longer time. This reduces cravings for cigarettes, making quitting easier. NRT provides nicotine in a much safer way than smoking.

People can use NRT to start cutting down the number of cigarettes they smoke before quitting, or they can start using NRT the day they stop smoking.

Types of NRT

The following NRTs are available in Aotearoa:

• nicotine gum
• nicotine patches
• lozenges
• inhalators
• mouth spray.

Patches, gum and lozenges are subsidised in Aotearoa so are they are low cost. You can get them through Quitline, or by talking to your doctor or pharmacist. They are also available for free when you sign up with your local stop smoking service.

If you prefer another product, you can buy them at a pharmacy, or most supermarkets.

Not every NRT product works right away for everyone, and it is okay to keep trying different methods. Following the instructions for each product is important to get the best results. 

You can always get advice from your doctor, pharmacist, quit coach, or local stop smoking service. 

The following playlist contains 5 videos about the NRT options available in Aotearoa. The videos are available in English and Māori, with subtitles in Māori, Samoan, and Tongan. 

Using more than one NRT product

Using nicotine patches with other NRT products can be more effective than using one method. You can combine NRT patches which release nicotine slowly, with NRT products that release nicotine more quickly. For example, you can use patches with gum, lozenges, an inhalator, or mouth spray. 

NRT is not the only tool on your journey to quit smoking. Consider using NRT to deal with the physical effects of quitting, and combine this with ways to cope with the challenges that make you feel like smoking.

How long should NRT be used for?

It is generally recommended that a person uses NRT for at least 8 to 12 weeks. You can use them for longer if you need to.

NRT provides a lower dose of nicotine than cigarettes and it takes longer for nicotine to reach the brain, so most people can stop using NRT without feeling dependent on it.

Safety and side effects of NRT

Most of the health problems from smoking are caused by the harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke, not by nicotine. You are not exposed to these chemicals when you use NRT.

There  are possible side effects depending on the NRT, or how you are using it.

Side effects of nicotine patches

The patch can cause skin irritation for some people. This is usually mild and doesn’t last long. Changing the place where you put your patch can help.

Some people have vivid dreams if they wear the patches to bed. If is a problem for you, take it off at night and stick a new one on when you wake up in the morning.

Side effects of nicotine gum and lozenges

If lozenges and gum are not used correctly, they may give you a sore stomach or hiccups. This should not happen if they are used correctly. You can talk to your doctor, pharmacist, Quitline or local stop smoking service if you have any concerns.

Some people may feel that the gum and lozenges taste bad, and that lozenges may cause coughing, nausea and heartburn. 

Side effects of nicotine inhalators

Some possible side effects are a slight irritation of the mouth and throat, and a cough.

Side effects of mouth spray

Some possible side effects are a slight irritation of the mouth and throat. Heartburn and hiccups can occur if you swallow too much of the mouth spray. To reduce the chance of side effects, carefully follow the instructions that come with the NRT. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, Quitline, or local stop smoking service. If you are concerned, or any side effects are not going away after a while, seek medical advice.

Stopping smoking and medications

If you take medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you quit smoking. Stopping smoking can change how some medicines work, and your dose might need to be adjusted to keep you safe

NRT in pregnancy and breastfeeding

NRT can be a safer option during pregnancy for people who need help to quit smoking. Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals that are dangerous for the parent and baby. NRT gives a smaller amount of nicotine without those chemicals. Talk to your doctor or midwife to use it safely.

NRT can also be a safer option for people who are breastfeeding and want to quit smoking. Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals that can pass into breast milk, but NRT provides a smaller amount of nicotine without those chemicals. Talk to your doctor or midwife about using it safely while breastfeeding.