Nicotine Gum vs. Patches vs. Lozenges: Which NRT Is Best for Your Quit Journey?

Deciding that you want to quit your habit of smoking is the first step towards an improved and healthier life. However, nicotine addiction is one of the hardest habits to overcome, especially if the addiction has festered over the years.

One of the most effective answers to How to Leave Smoking is nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). It is available in various forms like chewing gums, lozenges, patches, etc. Which kind of option would be best suited for your quitting journey is usually a subjective experience.

We will examine the different types of NRTs available in the market to provide more context and help you make healthier choices in your quitting journey.

What is Nicotine Replacement Therapy?

Before exploring the different types of NRTs, we must get the basics sorted. So, what is NRT, and how does it aid with quitting nicotine addiction?

Nicotine replacement therapy, or NRT, works by gradually reducing the amount of nicotine delivered to your body, alleviating withdrawal symptoms, and minimising cravings. Now, the common question is, “Will the nicotine in NRTs add to the addiction?” Ideally, no.

The nicotine in the NRTs is delivered in controlled dosages, which explains why it doesn’t translate to addiction and instead helps people overcome their habit of smoking and reliance on nicotine.

Unlike cigarettes, NRTs do not contain harmful additives such as tar, carbon monoxide, or other carcinogenic compounds, making them a safer way to manage nicotine cravings. So, depending on what’s more accessible for you, you can choose the type of NRT that works for you and make it a part of your quitting journey.

Everything about Nicotine Gums

When talking about the types of NRTs, Smoking Nicotine Gum is the most common choice. It is readily available and usually available in different flavours, making it more marketable to people who want to overcome their nicotine addiction.

These gums are formulated to provide a quick and small dosage of nicotine to the user to control their craving for a cigarette when they are trying to quit this ill habit. So, the next time a craving hits, one can pop a piece of the gum, chew it until the nicotine is released, and keep it under the cheeks until the craving subsides.

When you chew the gum, nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth, providing relatively fast relief from cravings. The gum is typically chewed until a tingling sensation is felt, at which point users stop chewing and let it rest in their mouth, a phenomenon called “chew and park.”

Everything about Nicotine Patches

Another effective form of NRT comes in the form of nicotine patches. Unlike the gums, which you chew it when the nicotine craving hits, patches provide a steady release of nicotine throughout the day, making them one of the most convenient forms of NRT.

Depending on the smoking intensity of the person, there are nicotine patches available to support them on their quitting journey. Also, most of these patches remain effective for 16-24 hours, depending on how heavy of a smoker you previously were.

The application process is quite simple. You clear part of your arm or torso with an alcohol swab, ensuring that the area is clean and dry. Once dry, apply the patch to the skin. Throughout the day, the patch releases a consistent, low dose of nicotine that is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream.

Everything About Nicotine Lozenges

The last form of NRT that’s also gaining traction recently is nicotine lozenges. These small tablets or pellets dissolve in the mouth, delivering the controlled nicotine dosage through the oral mucosa.

They balance the flexibility of gum and the simplicity of patches, making them a versatile option for many users.

For maximum effectiveness, you must place the lozenge between the gum and the cheek and let it dissolve slowly. Depending on the brand and composition, it usually takes between 20-30 minutes. This gradual release of nicotine helps control cravings while keeping the hands free, unlike chewing gum, which requires active involvement.

Comparing Nicotine Gum, Patches, and Lozenges

Now that you have a clear rundown of each of these NRTs, it is time to compare them and put them against each other, so you have a clear picture of which would be a better-suited NRT for your quitting journey.

Based on these comparisons, you can decide which of the three NRTs would be the ideal route for you.

How to Choose the Right NRT Product for Your Quit Journey?

With so many different types of NRTs and brands available, finalising or settling on one route can be very complex. You have to assess the pros and cons of each to determine which would be an ideal option for you in the long run.

Following are a few tips to consider:

• If you need immediate relief from cravings and prefer active involvement, nicotine gum could be the best choice.

• Nicotine patches are likely the most effective for steady, long-term control throughout the day with minimal involvement.

• If you prefer a discreet option that allows for hands-free use, nicotine lozenges provide a balance between control and convenience.

Final Words

The beautiful thing about your nicotine-quitting journey is that it is yours to decide and mould into. You can start with nicotine gums, which are the most accessible option, and then try other aids like patches and lozenges for better assistance. At the end of the day, sticking to your quitting journey and completing it is an ongoing experience, which you can eventually achieve.