If you are committed to stopping smoking then it is accepted that NRT will increase your chances of quitting smoking. Nicotine replacement therapy gives you just enough nicotine to overcome your cravings for tobacco. For example, you can take a piece of Nicorette gum whenever you feel the urge to smoke. By gradually reducing the amount of nicotine introduced into the body, NRT provides a safe and controlled way to wean your body off nicotine. This allows you to concentrate on the psychological and behaviour aspects of your addiction.

Nicotine replacement therapy is intended for short-term use, which according to the American FDA (Food and Drug Administration) translates to a period of around three to six months. There is little concrete data on the long-term effects of prolonged NRT use but it is widely accepted that it is far less dangerous than a return to smoking. The number of people still using NRT gum one year after they quit smoking has been estimated to be as little as 5%. If you are concerned about the prolonged use of NRT gum then you should consult your doctor or pharmacist.