Smoking cessation and prevention

Abstract

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) greatly enhances cessation outcomes. However, cessation counselling and behavioural strategies are important adjuncts for maintaining long-term smoking cessation. The relative effect of NRT is a doubling of the long-term success rate. Nicotine gum, patch and inhaler are first-line drugs, while nicotine nasal spray is for the more heavily dependent smokers. The patch might not be the first choice for heavily dependent smokers and, at least, higher patch doses should be used. The duration of NRT treatment is approximately 6-12 weeks with individual variations. Today, NRT offers an excellent instrument to be used in smoking cessation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients.