[Smoking cessation with nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) - a scientific update].

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is available in various application forms for the treatment of tobacco addiction. All forms underwent a comprehensive clinical study program (approx. 132 trial) to research on efficacy, safety and influence of environmental conditions. Nicotine gum, patch, nasal spray, microtab, lozenge and inhaler are recommended based on evidence criteria (OR 1.5 to 3.6, variation based on usage conditions and application form. NRT forms are OTC medicines (Exception: Nicotine nasal spray). The quality and the certainty of the nicotine replacement therapy will be enhanced by reflecting considerations concerning the indication, correlation of single NRT form to the appropriate user as well as the right dosage and compliance matters.