Nicotine Replacement Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Its Role in Smoking Cessation

Cigarette smoking remains the leading preventable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, contributing to millions of deaths annually due to the presence of carcinogenic and toxic compounds in tobacco smoke. Nicotine, the principal addictive component of tobacco, exerts complex pharmacological effects that sustain dependence, making cessation challenging. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) offers a safer and effective means of overcoming withdrawal symptoms by delivering controlled doses of nicotine through formulations such as gums, lozenges, patches, inhalers, nasal sprays, and emerging modalities like electronic nicotine delivery systems. Evidence suggests that NRT increases quit rates by 50–70% when combined with behavioural support, with combination therapies proving more effective in managing severe withdrawal. Despite advantages, NRT carries limitations, including adverse effects, potential misuse, drug–drug interactions, and the risk of prolonged nicotine dependence, highlighting the need for medical supervision. In India, where tobacco consumption remains among the highest globally, widespread use of NRT could significantly reduce smoking-related health burdens. Future research into rapid delivery systems and novel approaches, such as nicotine vaccines, holds promise for enhancing treatment efficacy. Overall, NRT represents a crucial intervention in global tobacco control strategies, warranting careful management, monitoring, and integration with behavioural support to achieve long-term smoking cessation.