Some people use nicotine substitutes when quitting smoking primarily to help manage cravings and physical withdrawal symptoms caused by stopping tobacco use. Nicotine addiction leads to dependence on the substance, so quitting smoking suddenly can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and strong urges to smoke. Nicotine substitutes, like gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, or nasal sprays, provide controlled doses of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. This helps ease withdrawal symptoms and reduces discomfort, making it easier to focus on the psychological aspects of quitting. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has been shown to almost double the chances of successfully quitting smoking. These substitutes allow gradual reduction of nicotine intake until the body adjusts and craving decreases. Moreover, they do not expose users to the toxic substances in cigarette smoke, such as tar and carbon monoxide, making them a safer alternative while managing addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
In short, people use nicotine substitutes to reduce withdrawal discomfort, manage physical dependence, and increase their chances of quitting smoking successfully.
