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Nicotine replacement therapy as a smoking cessation tool for adolescents: an update.

Frontiers in psychiatry
May 5, 2025
Ioannis Beis et al. (4 authors)
Journal ArticleSystematic ReviewHuman Study
Study Details

Study Goal

The researchers aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for smoking cessation in adolescents.

Results Summary

NRT showed limited long-term smoking cessation success in adolescents but was effective in reducing smoking frequency and managing withdrawal symptoms. The safety profile was generally favorable, with mild side effects like skin irritation, headaches, and nausea.

Population

Adolescents

Effective Dosage

Not specified

Duration

Not specified

Interactions

None mentioned

Extracted Claims (4)
InterventionDirectionEndpointPopulationDosageImpactClaim #
nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
no change
long-term smoking cessation
adolescents
low cessation rates
demonstrated limited success
#1
nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
decrease
smoking frequency
adolescents
-
was effective in reducing
#2
nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
decrease
withdrawal symptoms
adolescents
-
was effective in managing
#3
nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
neutral
safety profile
adolescents
-
was generally favourable
#4
Abstract

BACKGROUND: Adolescent smoking is a significant public health concern, as early nicotine addiction leads to more severe addiction and reduced cessation success during adulthood. While nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is an effective smoking cessation tool in adults, its efficacy in adolescents is less clear. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review evaluates the effectiveness and safety of NRT for smoking cessation in adolescents. METHODS: A comprehensive search of PubMed and Cochrane Library databases identified 12 studies (randomized controlled trials and observational) examining NRT in adolescents. Outcomes included smoking cessation rates, withdrawal symptom relief, smoking reduction, and adverse events. RESULTS: NRT demonstrated limited success in long-term smoking cessation among adolescents, with low cessation rates that often declined post-treatment. However, NRT was effective in reducing smoking frequency and in managing withdrawal symptoms in some cases. The safety profile was generally favourable, with mild side effects such as skin irritation, headaches, and nausea. CONCLUSION: While NRT can reduce smoking and alleviate withdrawal symptoms, its effectiveness in sustaining long-term cessation in adolescents is limited. Adherence challenges and side effects suggest a need for complementary behavioural support and further research into tailored NRT strategies for this population.

Study Links
Quality Scores
Safety75
Efficacy60/10
Quality80/10
Research Impact Scores
APT Score0.05
Weight Score2.60
Normalized Score0.70
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