nicotine patch + nicotine gum

A combination smoking cessation therapy that pairs two different nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products. The nicotine patch provides continuous, steady delivery of nicotine through the skin to help manage baseline withdrawal symptoms, while the nicotine gum offers fast-acting, as-needed relief for breakthrough cravings. This dual approach addresses both the constant need for nicotine replacement and the intermittent cravings that can trigger relapse. Studies have demonstrated that this combination approach is more effective than using either product alone, with significantly higher abstinence rates observed at 12 and 24 weeks. The combination therapy is associated with higher salivary cotinine concentrations and lower withdrawal scores. For individuals with high nicotine dependence (those who smoke 10 or more cigarettes per day), this combination therapy has shown particular benefit. The combination is generally well-tolerated, with side effects consistent with those of each product used individually.

Brand names

Nicoderm CQ + NicoretteHabitrol + NicoretteNicoDerm CQ + generic nicotine gum

Other names

combination NRTpreparation combination NRT + standard duration combination NRTdual NRT