Objective: To present the concept of nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT) and the pharmacologic approaches, nonprescription and prescription, to smoking cessation.
Data sources: Current clinical literature.
Data synthesis: NRT can be delivered through a number of different nicotine-containing dosage forms (e.g., gum, patch, nasal spray, oral inhaler). The Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) recommends using the nicotine patches for routine clinical practice and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) recommends the use of the patches and gum as initial pharmacotherapies for smoking cessation. There are no comparative studies indicating the superiority of one form or another at relieving nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Of the other pharmacologic agents used for smoking cessation, bupropion hydrochloride demonstrates the most promise.
Conclusion: The pharmacist can assist the consumer with the selection of an OTC smoking cessation product and serve as an informational resource to consumers and physicians desiring information on prescription drug products for smoking cessation.