The relative effect of NRT does not depend on the amount of face-to-face behavioural support.

Providing suitable behavioural support in addition to NRT will boost absolute quit rates, however, the effect of NRT does not appear to be dependent on the amount of support provided. Smokers purchasing NRT over the counter should be encouraged to follow product recommendations and access behavioural support where possible.

Fiore MC, Jaén CR, Baker TB, et al. Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence: 2008 Update. Clinical Practice Guideline. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Public Health Service. May 2008.

Stead LF, Perera R, Bullen C, Mant D, Lancaster T. Nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008; 1.

Hughes JR, Shiffman S, Callas P, Zhang J. A meta-analysis of the efficacy of over-the-counter nicotine replacement. Tob Control. 2003; 12: 21-27.