No proof that nicotine patches work

Nicotine replacement therapies, such as patches and lozenges, are only proven to work in addition to counselling. Image: iStockphoto As smokers spend millions of dollars purchasing over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy, a Hunter researcher has revealed the treatments are of uncertain effectiveness when used alone. Associate Professor Raoul Walsh from the Centre for Health Research and Psycho-oncology (CHeRP) reviewed 12 studies relating to the effectiveness of over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy. He discovered that the results of the studies did not convincingly demonstrate that the therapy, when used alone without additional support, was effective in helping smokers to quit. Associate Professor Walsh said his review revealed that the methods used in nicotine replacement therapy trials were very different... [read full story]