The Side Effects to Consider with Nicotine Replacement Therapy

There are several methods that have been developed to help individuals to quit smoking over the years. Nicotine Replacement Therapy is one of the more common pharmacotherapy treatments available. Though it has been proven to be effective for many, it’s important to take a look at the drawbacks and consider if it’s right for you. Not everything comes in a one size fixes all package, so to speak.

With that, let’s take a look at NRT and some of the more common side-effects of this common therapy:

What is Nicotine Replacement Therapy?

Nicotine replacement therapies are known to give patients small amounts of nicotine, in hopes to wean them off actual cigarettes. Gum or a patch are the more common methods used. The goal is to allow an individual to evade the dangers of chemically laced cigarettes, but continue allowing nicotine to flow through their system. At which point, the individual will only need to quit nicotine.

Side Effects

Though studies have shown benefits, there have been risks found in utilizing the NRT methods. According to a recent study, some NRT clients experienced increased risk of heart palpitations and chest pains, while others complained of gastrointestinal issues and insomnia. Others using an oral alternative experienced mouth soreness/ulcers.

Side effects that do not have immediate physical implications exist as well. Though you may have successfully weaned yourself off several of the horrific contents of cigarettes or cigars, nicotine itself has shown to still be addictive and cause health problems down the line.

Generally speaking, Nicotine replacement therapy is considered a safe treatment alternative for many healthy adults. It is still wise, however, to speak with your doctor about starting this treatment, as it may not be for you.

Effective Rate

Side effects and addiction are both real problems that can result from NRT. But another question that arises is it’s overall effectiveness among it’s vast patients over the years. Consider that nicotine replacement therapy raises the likelihood of quitting from around 50%. When contrasted, only 7.5% of clients who utilize the Quit Smoking Now program (QSN) asked for a refund. Meaning, 92.5% of smokers under the guidance of the QSN journey have found it to be beneficial. That is overwhelming.

Quitting must be a Holistic Approach

The “quick fix” doesn’t exist. It’s best for anyone quitting to understand that a there is a mental, emotional, physical component attached. An approach to quitting should be understood as a change to one’s entire approach to smoking itself.

Consider it a lifestyle change. A chance to become a new you. Quitting smoking can be a journey that gives you the opportunity to open up to new experiences, ideas, and perceptions of life. Some of the benefits of a holistic approach are as follows:

Developing a support system: Meeting new people that you can rely on to pick you up, and encourage your journey to kicking your smoking habit is a rewarding experience. Surrounding yourself with the right people can prove key in cessation of smoking.

Kicking other bad habits: By learning how to quit smoking naturally, you’ll develop a better means of dealing with other lingering life challenges. You may be surprised at how these new problem solving skills can work throughout everyday life.

Fulfilling your potential: Be the best you that you can be! Quitting smoking is a great accomplishment, and the lingering pride will give you further confidence, self-esteem and a positive self-outlook that will bring out a more radiant you.

If you’re ready to take this new approach, especially after having exhausted several others, please reach out and contact us to begin your QSN journey today.