Nicotine replacement therapy products over the counter: real-life use in the Australian community

Objective: To explore the information received by NRT users; whether patterns of NRT use are in accordance with recommendations; and to identify the characteristics of those using NRT products. Methods: A cross-sectional, omnibus telephone survey of 1,509 community members was conducted in New South Wales, Australia in 2000. The survey identified 215 current and former smokers who completed additional questions regarding their most recent quit attempt. Results: Of the 215 current and former smokers, 67 (31.2%) had used NRT on their most recent quit attempt. The majority of NRT use (61%) lasted for less than two weeks. More than 40% of NRT users reported receiving no instructions from a doctor or pharmacist on how to use the product. Approximately one-third of NRT use was associated with concomitant smoking, with 10% of NRT use being associated with little or no reduction in reported daily cigarette consumption. Only 41.8% of NRT users reported a doctor had recommended using the product. Conclusions: Despite the small size of the sample, the data suggest a level of inappropriate use of NRT products in the community. Implications: Wider use and effective provision of support and advice to NRT users in the community must be addressed if this product is to achieve its optimal potential in aiding smoking cessation.