Does Nicotine Replacement Therapy Actually work?
Yes is does. Simply put. Or does it? The trouble with smoking is that it is an addiction. As a result you are addicted to nicotine and continuing to consume that drug will not stop you being addicted to nicotine.
So does NRT work?
No. By smoking you are taking nicotine into your body. By using nicotine patches, nicotine gum or other nicotine replacement products you are continuing to absorb nicotine into your blood and so continuing the addiction.
Why do so many people say they quit smoking then?
The one thing that NRT does is help take away the desire to smoke cigarettes. A smoking cessation will be a whole lot easier with NRT. By using a nicotine replacement you are removing the poisons from cigarettes. You are actually being healthier but you are still a nicotine addict. Most nicotine replacement products will help you to rid yourself of the addiction to nicotine.
However, as we have mentioned before the only true way to quit smoking forever and rid yourself of the nicotine addiction to quit utterly and completely. No patches. No gum. No inhalator. No nicotine.
Many people, find this tough. It isn’t as hard as you would think but if you still have the mental block that prevents a complete smoking cessation then you should consider the NRT on offer.
How does NRT work?
Small amounts of nicotine are contained within the gum or patch. This is absorbed into the blood and giving your body (and mind) the nicotine it thinks it needs. The purpose behind most nicotine replacement therapy system works by slowly reducing the dosage your body thinks you need. Little by little you give yourself less nicotine till, eventually, you don’t need it anymore.
As nicotine addictions is mostly psychological this system makes you believe that you are gently giving up on your cravings for cigarettes and nicotine. It is exactly the brainwashing reversal technique that got you addicted to smoking in the first place! Clever?
In fact NRT helps more people quit smoking that any other method, other than a full and instant quit. If you still feel addicted to nicotine but want to quit or save money then NRT can also help. Similarly dedicated smokers can use NRT on long flights or journeys to satisfy their cravings.
As with any medication you should consult a doctor before proceeding with any NRT course as well as discussing which method may be best for you.