An explanation of nicotine replacement therapy.
In this article...
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is a medication that supplies you with nicotine minus the tar, carbon monoxide, and other toxic chemicals that come with tobacco smoke. The primary reason people smoke is because nicotine is addictive. NRTs can aid in reducing the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. These include mood swings and cravings, that you experience when you quit smoking.
If you are looking to quit smoking, there are various treatments available. You can get them from shops, pharmacies and through prescription to aid your journey towards becoming smoke free. The most suitable treatment for you will depend on your preferences, age, pregnancy or if you're breastfeeding, and any medical conditions you may have.
The most common NRTs are patches, gum, lozenges, nicotine pouches and vapes. Research has shown that all these methods can be effective. But, the NHS states that if you use an e-cigarette alongside professional guidance, you're twice as likely to quit!
Types of NRT
Patches
To use a nicotine patch, you stick it onto your skin like a plaster. Your body then slowly absorbs the nicotine through the skin.
They’re often used together with a faster-acting type of NRT such as nicotine lozenges or gum. Also, if the wrong strength is chosen, they can cause headaches.
The most common side effect of patches is trouble sleeping or vivid dreams. This can be prevented by removing it at night.
Gum, lozenges and sprays
Nicotine gum, lozenges and sprays are designed to provide instant relief from cravings. They’re commonly used alongside other NRTs, such as vapes or patches.
Choosing which to use is down to personal preference. Gum is the most common, but the others are equally as effective.
Nicotine Pouches
Nicotine pouches are small, white packets that contain nicotine and other ingredients, but they do not include tobacco.
Nicotine pouches are often considered as a tobacco-free alternative to snus, and they are available in various flavours.
To use a nicotine pouch, simply place it between your upper lip and gum, and leave it there for up to an hour while the nicotine and flavours are gradually released. Once you’re done, simply dispose of the used pouch. Many brands even have a storage area in their packaging for used pouches, in case there is no bin available.
Vapes
E-cigs are devices that allow you to breathe in nicotine in a vapour form instead of smoke. E-liquid only contains propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavourings, and nicotine. E-liquids come in different nicotine strengths, so you can control how much nicotine you need to help with cravings.
Vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking, and is considered one of the most effective ways to quit. Research shows that it is 95% safer than combustible tobacco. However, it is important to note that it is not completely harmless, and we strongly recommend using it only as a support tool for adult smokers who are looking to quit.
There are several ways to start vaping, including disposables and easy to use starter kits.
Good kits to start vaping
Elf Bar 600 Pod Kit
| Puffs | 600 |
| Flavours | 25 |
| Price | £4.49 |
Lost Mary BM6000 Pod Kit
| Battery | 1000mAh |
| Flavours | 38 |
| Price | £11.79 |
OXVA XLIM Pro 2
| Battery | 1300mAh |
| Resistance | 0.6ohm / 0.8ohm |
| Price | £17.99 |
That concludes our look at nicotine replacement therapy. If you want to quit vaping, our customer service team has the knowledge to help you through the initial steps. Feel free to contact us.
