Day 16 without nicotine

Quit medicines and nicotine replacement are not cheating.

What's happening

If cravings are still wearing you down, help exists. Approved options include nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges, sprays) and prescription medicines such as varenicline. The NHS says combining treatments works better than using one.

Nicotine pouches are not the same as nicotine replacement therapy. Truth Initiative notes that no pouch product has been approved as a quit aid, while NRT is approved, regulated and safe to use even long-term.

The right choice depends on you, so ask a professional. The NHS suggests your GP, pharmacist or local Stop Smoking Service. In the US, ask your doctor or call 1-800-QUIT-NOW.

What helps today

  • Talk to a pharmacist about whether nicotine replacement suits you.
  • Ask your doctor about prescription quit medicines if cravings are strong.
  • Don't switch to pouches as a quit aid. They are not approved for quitting.
  • If you already use NRT, ask whether combining a patch with a fast-acting form could help.

Sources

  1. Find the best stop-smoking product for you · NHS Better Health
  2. NHS stop smoking services help you quit · NHS
  3. How to Manage Cravings · Smokefree.gov (National Cancer Institute)
  4. Quit Smoking · CDC (Tips From Former Smokers)
  5. Nicotine Withdrawal · Cleveland Clinic
  6. What to know about quitting Zyn · Truth Initiative

This is general information, not medical advice. If you are pregnant, take medication or have a health condition, talk to a doctor or pharmacist. Free help: 1-800-QUIT-NOW in the US, NHS Stop Smoking Services in the UK.