Quit for Good with Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)—like the nicotine patch, gum, and lozenge—is proven to increase your chances of quitting. It can help you get through cravings and decrease symptoms of withdrawal, but it won't completely take away the urge to smoke or use other tobacco products. For best results, carefully follow the directions for using NRT. Make sure the dose is high enough and use the nicotine medication for the recommended amount of time (2–4 months). Combine NRT with counseling to improve your chances of quitting and staying quit.
Support from SmokefreeVET’s text messaging program can also help you stay on track as you quit smoking or using other tobacco. Sign up to get daily advice, tips, and motivation to help you quit for good.
ESTIMATE YOUR NICOTINE DOSAGE
Estimate Your Nicotine Dosage
How many cigarettes do you smoke per day?
TRY THESE NRTs*
*See NRT package inserts for complete dosing recommendations and talk to your health care provider.
Estimate Your Nicotine Dosage
How many cans/pouches do you use per week?
TRY THESE NRTs*
*See NRT package inserts for complete dosing recommendations and talk to your health care provider.
Choose Your Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Your Chances of Staying Quit…
Some people choose to quit without any assistance—also known as “quitting cold turkey.” But data show that compared to quitting cold turkey, you are much more likely to stay quit if you use quit aids like nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and counseling.
Select one or more of the therapies above to see how your likelihood of staying quit could change.
You Selected this Therapy:
Please make a selection above.
How to Use the Nicotine Patch & Lozenge
- Begin using the patch and lozenge together on your quit date.
- Each day, remove the old patch when you wake up, and apply one new patch.
- Use lozenges as needed to control cravings.
- Let the lozenge slowly dissolve in your mouth near your cheek and gum.
- Do not chew or swallow the lozenge; it may make you nauseous or upset your stomach.
- Continue to use the patch and lozenge if you slip and smoke or use chewing tobacco.
- Discontinue use of the patch and lozenge if you return to regular smoking or tobacco use.
Planning Your Day
Using combination therapy increases your chance of staying quit. The patch provides a steady dose of nicotine for withdrawal relief, while the lozenge is used as needed to control cravings.
Nicotine Facts
These facts about NRT may surprise you—like the fact that NRT contains only purified nicotine and none of the other toxins found in tobacco. That way, you can safely reduce your dependence on nicotine. Click through to learn more facts about NRT.
Talk to Your Doctor
Talk with your healthcare provider about the best type of NRT or other tobacco cessation medication and the right dosage for you. Their recommendation will be based on your experiences with medications in the past; how much you currently smoke, dip, chew, and any other medical conditions you have.
Your doctor may also recommend prescription medicines to help you quit. These medications do not contain nicotine, but they can reduce your urge to smoke.
Call 1-855-QUIT-VET (1-855-784-8838), VA’s tobacco quitline for Veterans, to speak with a tobacco cessation counselor Monday–Friday. Counseling is available in English and Spanish.
