Quitting tobacco is tough, but with the right tools and support, it is possible. The Oklahoma Tobacco Helpline offers several FREE services to help you quit tobacco. One of our most popular and more effective options is free nicotine replacement therapy.

So, what is nicotine replacement therapy and how can it help you quit? Here are answers to a few common questions about nicotine replacement therapy.

What is nicotine replacement therapy?

How does nicotine replacement therapy work?

Types of nicotine replacement therapy

Does nicotine replacement therapy work?

How effective is nicotine replacement therapy?

How to use nicotine replacement therapy

Who can use nicotine replacement therapy?

What are common myths about nicotine replacement therapy?

How do I combine nicotine replacement therapy with other services?

What is nicotine replacement therapy?

Nicotine replacement therapy — sometimes referred to as NRT — is nicotine addiction treatment. It is a safe and effective way to ease tobacco cravings and withdrawal. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance found in many tobacco products, vapes and pouches. It’s the ingredient that causes dependence and makes tobacco harder to quit.

How does nicotine replacement therapy work?

Nicotine replacement therapy uses controlled amounts of nicotine without the other harmful chemicals usually found in tobacco products to help tobacco users quit without the harsh withdrawal symptoms. These products are specifically designed to help users step down their nicotine intake over time instead of abruptly stopping their consumption.

The control nicotine replacement therapy provides helps reduce nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings that may come with quitting tobacco — especially during the early stages. That’s what makes it one of the best ways to quit tobacco. Using nicotine replacement therapy is like using training wheels to learn to ride a bike. You won’t need it forever, but it will help you navigate all the changes that come with quitting.

Types of nicotine replacement therapy:

Nicotine patches

Patches are one of the most popular forms of nicotine replacement therapy. They are discreet and easy to use — you can wear them to work, events and family dinners without anyone ever knowing. Patches provide a steady, slow release of nicotine throughout the day to help you for long periods of time. They can be worn for several hours at a time and come in different strengths to meet your needs.

Nicotine gum

The average tobacco craving lasts around ten minutes. Gum is a fast-acting form of nicotine replacement therapy that provides instant relief when powerful cravings hit. At the first sign of a tobacco craving, slowly chew a piece of gum for a few minutes as it kicks in. Chewing gum can also be a great distraction for your mouth, directly replacing smokeless tobacco, cigarettes or vapes.

Nicotine lozenges

Similar to gum, lozenges are fast-acting and can soothe cravings before they get too intense. Place a lozenge in your mouth at the first sign of a craving and allow it to slowly dissolve. Avoid chewing or swallowing the lozenge whole to ensure you get the full benefits.

Other types of nicotine replacement therapy

The Helpline offers FREE patches, gum or lozenges to Oklahomans thinking about quitting tobacco. However, there are other forms of nicotine replacement therapy, such as nasal sprays and inhalers. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to find what works best for you. SoonerCare members may be eligible for additional free forms of nicotine replacement therapy.

Does nicotine replacement therapy work?

Nicotine replacement therapy can significantly increase your chances of successfully quitting. When used correctly, it can double your odds of quitting compared to quitting cold turkey. However, nicotine replacement therapy is most effective when it’s combined with other quit services.

How effective is nicotine replacement therapy?

Studies have shown that nicotine replacement therapy increases the odds of successfully quitting tobacco by 50-60%. Combining nicotine replacement therapy with other quit services, such as text messages, Coach support and mindfulness techniques,  boosted the odds of quitting even more.

How to use nicotine replacement therapy:

The first few tobacco-free days are when cravings will hit the hardest. When you sign up with the Helpline, talk with your Coach and order your chosen nicotine replacement therapy early to ensure it arrives by your quit date. You will also consult with a Coach to help you determine the proper nicotine dosage. Your Coach can also provide you personalized advice and make nicotine replacement therapy recommendations based on your lifestyle and schedule.

Who can use nicotine replacement therapy?

Oklahomans 18 and older are eligible for FREE nicotine replacement therapy from the Helpline, unless medically restricted. However, it may not be best suited for everyone. Talk with your doctor if you:

• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or postpartum.
• Have preexisting health complications, such as heart disease or diabetes.
• Take prescription medicine or other daily supplements.

If you have any questions or concerns, you can always reach out to your doctor or health care provider before placing your nicotine replacement therapy order.

What are common myths about nicotine replacement therapy?

Even though nicotine replacement therapy is proven effective, there are several myths and misunderstandings that prevent those who need it from trying it.

• Myth: It’s just replacing one addiction with another.
  • The truth: Nicotine replacement therapy is safe in proper doses. While it does contain nicotine, it delivers it in a controlled manner without the other harmful ingredients found in tobacco products. What is nicotine replacement therapy’s ultimate goal? To lower the dosage until it is no longer needed, reducing nicotine withdrawal symptoms along the way.
• Myth: Nicotine replacement therapy isn’t effective long term.
  • Nicotine replacement therapy is designed to be a temporary aid to help you quit nicotine, not a long-term substitute. It safely eases cravings until you are ready to live 100% nicotine free. Nicotine replacement therapy is your training wheels, springboard and bumpers all in one. They are here to help you get started.

How do I combine nicotine replacement therapy with other services?

What is nicotine replacement therapy’s role in your overall quit plan? It takes care of the cravings so you can focus on the other aspects of quitting, like changing your routines, finding new hobbies and discovering new habits that work best for you.

The Helpline offers several different quit services to complement your nicotine replacement therapy, such as:

• Coach support. Get personal support and advice throughout your entire journey. Your Coach can recommend new tactics and help you find the most effective nicotine replacement therapy.
• Live online group sessions. You never have to take the quit journey alone. Connect with peers in a low-stress, coach-led environment.
• Supportive texts and emails. Small nudges and reminders throughout the day will help you stay on track and provide coping tips for in-the-moment relief.
• Online Dashboard. Track your progress and your nicotine replacement therapy shipments all in one place on a personalized dashboard.

There is no one-size-fits-all way to quit. Use one service or use them all! Work with your Coach to find a quit plan that works for you.

What is nicotine replacement therapy? A safe, effective way to stop nicotine cravings in their tracks! Understanding what it is, how it works and when to use it will jumpstart your tobacco-free journey on the right track.

Whether you choose to use nicotine replacement therapy or not, the Helpline is here with FREE, nonjudgmental support. With the right tools, you CAN quit. Sign up to get started