How to Quit Tobacco with Nicotine Replacement Therapy

En Español

What Is Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)?

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)—like the nicotine patch, nicotine gum, and nicotine lozenge—is proven to increase your chances of quitting tobacco. 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. NRT is typically used for 2-4 months, but health care providers may recommend longer use in certain cases. Combine NRT with counseling to improve your chances of stopping tobacco for good.

Facts about NRT

Click through to learn facts about using NRT to stop tobacco use.

NRT contains only purified nicotine.

FACT 1/8

NRT has none of the other toxins found in tobacco. That way, you can safely reduce your dependence on nicotine.

NRT is designed to prevent addiction.

FACT 2/8

The amount of nicotine in NRT is regulated, so NRT is far less addictive than tobacco. NRT delivers less nicotine at a slower rate to help reduce your dependence. Most people can taper down and stop using NRT after a few months.

NRT works.

FACT 3/8

When used as directed, NRT can double your chances of quitting tobacco for good.

NRT helps with tough cravings.

FACT 4/8

The worst withdrawal symptoms usually last only a few days to a couple of weeks. NRT can help make these symptoms less intense and more manageable.

Combining NRT improves your chances of stopping tobacco.

FACT 5/8

NRT products can be used safely together. Try a long-acting nicotine patch with a short-acting lozenge or gum to fight off cravings.

It’s OK if you briefly smoke, dip, or chew.

FACT 6/8

It is safe to continue using NRT even if you use tobacco once or twice. Staying on NRT increases your chances of getting back on track.

NRT is safe.

FACT 7/8

Research shows that NRT is safe and effective for almost all adults. Pregnant women, teens, and people with serious health issues should talk to their doctor before using NRT.

NRT is available over the counter.

FACT 8/8

NRT is so safe, it doesn’t require a doctor’s prescription.

MAKE YOUR NRT PLAN

Estimate your Nicotine Dosage

Estimate Your Nicotine Dosage

How many cigarettes do you smoke per day?

10 or fewer

TRY THESE NRTs*

2mg

Gum or Lozenge

AND

14mg

Patch

*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?

How soon after you wake up do you place your first dip?

TRY THESE NRTs*

2mg

Gum or Lozenge

AND

21mg

Patch

*See NRT package inserts for complete dosing recommendations and talk to your health care provider.

Choose Your Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Include counseling in your plan for the best chance of stopping tobacco for good.

Tobacco Cessation Counseling

Nicotine Patch

AND

Nicotine Gum

Nicotine Lozenge

Your Chances of Stopping Tobacco…

Some people choose to stop tobacco without any assistance—also known as “quitting cold turkey.” But data show that compared to quitting cold turkey, you are much more likely to stop for good if you use quit aids like nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and tobacco cessation counseling.

Select one or more of the therapies above to see how your likelihood of stopping tobacco could change.

Learn More About your Selected Therapy:

Please make a selection above.

How to Use the Nicotine Patch with 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 if you smoke or use chewing tobacco once or twice.
View the fact sheet for more information about use and potential side effects.

Talk to An Expert About Quitting Tobacco

Talk to your VA healthcare provider about the best type of NRT and dosage for you. Their recommendation will be based on your experiences with medications in the past; your current tobacco use; and any medical conditions you have.

Your doctor may also recommend other prescription tobacco cessation 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 Quit VET coach Monday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. EST. Counseling is available in English and Spanish.

Sign up for SmokefreeVET to get support and tips at your fingertips

SmokefreeVET’s text messaging program includes tips for using NRT as well as advice and encouragement to help you quit tobacco for good. Sign up to get help staying on track as you quit smoking or using other tobacco.