Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Millions of people smoke tobacco in America, putting them at a higher risk for diseases and death. To combat the use of tobacco, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is being used to aid in smoking cessation. NRT is a form of treatment that gradually weans a smoker off cigarettes (the most common way tobacco is used) by using products with lower doses of nicotine and no harmful chemicals from smoking. Although not new, NRTs are forecasted to be more popular in the coming years, especially in the US. In fact, North America is a leader in the NRT market due to the widespread availability of NRT products.
If you’re thinking about using NRT to help you quit smoking, here are a few products to consider:
Nicotine pouches
Nicotine pouches are small, white pouches that are tucked beneath the lip, allowing the user to absorb the nicotine for up to 30 minutes. They’re smoke- and tobacco-free, making them much safer than cigarettes. There are many nicotine pouch variants available today, but a few have stood out in the market. As you can see by looking at leading ecommerce platform Prilla’s bestselling nicotine pouch brands, the most popular include VELO, ZYN, and ON! All three come from the world’s top manufacturers. Each brand offers its own set of aromas and flavors, so it helps to try various brands to see which one best suits your needs. They are quick and easy to use, and you don’t need to worry about spitting or staining your teeth. If you’re experiencing dental issues like those we discussed in our “Gingivitis Treatments and Medications” post, this benefit is especially important to note.
Nicotine pouches usually have a range of nicotine strengths and flavors, so choose which dosage and flavorings best suit your current habits in order to decrease your urge to smoke. You can lower the dose when you feel less dependent on the kick.
Nicotine lozenges
Nicotine lozenges are tablet-like, oral NRT products that can help reduce tobacco withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Unlike regular lozenges, these cannot be chewed, sucked, or swallowed; users place them between their gums and cheek, allowing the lozenge to dissolve and the nicotine to be absorbed for around 20 to 30 minutes. They’re not as popular as other NRT products like gum or patches, but they’re set to grow significantly. With big names in the tobacco industry like Philip Morris International acquiring nicotine lozenge manufacturer Swedish Match, smokeless initiatives like these look to be more commonplace and encouraged.
Lozenges don’t require much work to use either and they’re good for combating bursts of cravings. According to NRT experts, if you smoke a lot, you can start with a higher dosage or take up to 20 a day depending on the brand and your healthcare provider’s advice.
Nicotine patches
Nicotine patches are stuck onto your skin, providing a regulated nicotine dose for up to 24 hours. They’re one of the most well-known and readily-available NRT products in the US and have been used for years since they’re discreet and can be worn for a longer period of time than other products. Brands such as Habitrol and Nicotex are offered by some of the biggest companies in the market and offer an 8- or 12-week program, aiding smokers to curb smoking for good.
Nicotine patches are a good option if you’d rather not take any products orally. You can wear one under your clothes and even sleep with it on, so you don’t have to worry about having to replace it throughout the day. These patches usually come with a set timeline where you’ll lower the nicotine dose after a specific period.
Quitting smoking is a tough battle; few win it on the first go. NRT products can make the journey easier to help you stick to healthier habits and quell your urges for good.