Truth: NRT does work. NRT can double a smoker's chance of quitting smoking. The likelihood of staying quit for more than six months is increased when a smoker uses NRT according to the directions.
Truth: No, the products are different and the likelihood of long-term addiction to NRT is very low. The nicotine found in NRT is regulated by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA). The amount of nicotine in NRT is less than in cigarettes and it is delivered more slowly. NRT products have a much lower risk of addiction than cigarettes.
Truth: NRT does reduce withdrawal symptoms associated with cigarette smoking. However, it may not completely eliminate them. The symptoms most helped by NRT include: irritability, frustration, anger, craving, hunger, anxiety, difficult concentrating, restlessness, and insomnia. NRT achieves the best results when combined with a personal quit plan.
Truth: The effect of NRT on the body is not fully known, but NRT products are safer than cigarettes. The negative health effects of cigarettes are proven. Of the 4,000 chemicals found in tobacco smoke, over 60 are known to cause cancer. By using NRT to quit smoking you reduce your exposure to many chemicals found in tobacco smoke.
Truth: No, NRT products can be used alone or in combination. Talk to your doctor before doing so.
Truth: Over time the cost of NRT is less expensive than the cost of cigarettes. NRT is generally used for a limited time, whereas cigarettes are typically consumed many years. Compare the price of the NRT products to the average price of $3.51 for a package of 20 cigarettes in South Carolina (lowest in the United States) and the $5.96 for a package of 20 cigarettes in Alaska.
NRT Product Average Daily Cost
- Nicotine Nasal Spray $3.40
- Nicotine Patches $3.91
- Nicotine Lozenges $4.98
- Nicotine Gum $5.81
- Nicotine Inhaler $6.07
Truth: Under the direction of your doctor most people can use NRT. Generally, NRT can be safely used by people with diabetes or high blood pressure and does not increase the risk of heart attacks. Talk to your doctor to determine if NRT is the right choice for your quit plan.