Benefits of nicotine replacement therapy: A path to quitting smoking for New Year’s resolution

The dangers of smoking are well-documented and clear. On average, a long-term regular smoker loses about ten years of their life, with only half living beyond 70 compared to 80% of non-smokers. Smoking not only threatens mortality but also significantly elevates the risk of debilitating conditions such as strokes, angina, emphysema, and high blood pressure.

Yet, despite the overwhelming knowledge of these risks — 92.9% of South African adults acknowledge that smoking causes serious illness— 12.7 million adults in the country (29.4%) continue to smoke, as per the 2021 Global Adult Tobacco Survey.

Why do so many people continue to endanger their lives like this? The answer lies in understanding the powerful grip of smoking addiction.

Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemicals, but it’s mainly the nicotine that keeps people hooked. Nicotine rapidly reaches the brain, delivering a quick ‘hit’ that makes smoking so addictive. While nicotine itself has a tolerable profile, the other components of cigarette smoke, such as carbon monoxide and tar, are responsible for the severe health risk.

These facts now well established, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) offers a beacon of hope. NRT offers a method to combat nicotine addiction without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. By providing a controlled amount of nicotine, NRT reduces withdrawal symptoms and helps manage cravings, significantly increasing the chances of quitting cigarettes.

Over 100 placebo-controlled trials support the efficacy of NRT, showing it can double a smoker’s chances of quitting for 6–12 months. Additional studies have shown that using NRT can increase the chances of quitting by about 50% to 60%. This substantial evidence underlines the importance of NRT in smoking cessation strategies.

NRT comes in various forms, including gums, patch, nasal spray, inhalator and tablets. Brands like Kenvue’s Nicorette, have become synonymous with quit-smoking aids, in conjunction with behavioural therapy. Nicotine gum, for instance, is particularly popular due to its effectiveness.

To use Nicorette gum effectively, one should chew it slowly until a tingling sensation is felt, then place it between the cheek and gums. This process helps manage the urge to smoke by providing a steady release of nicotine, easing the withdrawal process.

Basic health education can also influence smoking habits.

A 10-year prospective intervention study conducted in India, for instance, saw 36,000 tobacco users initially surveyed for oral cancer and pre-cancer signs and then examined annually over the decade. During each check-up, they received health education about the effects of their tobacco use. By the end of the study, 11% of men and 37% of women had stopped using tobacco, compared to just 2% and 10%, respectively, in the control group.

Research shows that all licensed forms of NRT improves the ability to successfully quit smoking. While some smokers may experience mild to moderate side effects, research consistently shows that NRT has a good tolerability profile and greatly improves the chances of quitting. By delivering nicotine in a controlled manner, NRT allows smokers to gradually wean off their dependence, making the transition away from smoking more manageable.

NRT represents a scientifically-backed, effective means to combat the nicotine addiction that keeps smokers smoking. As we continue to innovate and expand access to these therapies, brands like Kenvue Nicorette and other smoking cessation treatment will remain vital tools in the global effort to reduce smoking rates and improve public health.

Quitting smoking is undeniably a difficult thing to do, but with the right tools and support, it’s an achievable and life-saving goal.

For more information go to: https://za.kenvuebrands.com