You’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. Why you don’t need to be afraid of nicotine medication like the patch, gum, nasal spray, lozenge, or inhaler; why nicotine is in cigarettes, what it does and more.
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Free, confidential, evidence-based support to quit smoking, vaping, or tobacco for New Yorkers.
Does nicotine cause cancer?
No, nicotine does not cause cancer. Poisons found in cigarettes, like arsenic, formaldehyde, and many more, cause cancer. Smokeless tobacco, like chew, also contains many cancer-causing chemicals.
Nicotine is an addictive drug that keeps you smoking, but it is the other harmful chemicals in cigarettes that make smoking so dangerous.
Does nicotine cause cancer?
No, nicotine does not cause cancer. Poisons found in cigarettes, like arsenic, formaldehyde, and many more, cause cancer. Smokeless tobacco, like chew, also contains many cancer-causing chemicals.
Nicotine is an addictive drug that keeps you smoking, but it is the other harmful chemicals in cigarettes that make smoking so dangerous.
Why don’t the cigarette companies just take nicotine and tar out of the tobacco?
Cigarettes wouldn’t be addictive without nicotine, you’d stop smoking, and they wouldn’t get your money! Tar provides most of the flavor for your cigarette. Less tar, less flavor.
Isn’t it better to switch to low-tar, low-nicotine cigarettes?
No. Even though it may feel better on your chest, chances are you will puff harder and smoke more of each cigarette to get the nicotine.
I have a hard time quitting smoking. Is there a safer way to get nicotine?
Yes. You can get clean nicotine in a nicotine patch, gum, nasal spray, lozenge, or inhaler; these products don’t have tar.
Won’t I get hooked on nicotine in nicotine medications like the patch?
Most people find it easy to get off nicotine medicines after a few months. Products like the nicotine patch, gum, nasal spray, lozenge, or inhaler deliver nicotine slowly. Nicotine gets absorbed through the skin or through the lining of the nose or mouth.
Won’t I get hooked nicotine medications like the patch?
Most people find it easy to get off nicotine medicines after a few months. Products like the nicotine patch, gum, nasal spray, lozenge, or inhaler deliver nicotine slowly. Nicotine gets absorbed through the skin or through the lining of the nose or mouth.
Does nicotine replacement really work, or is it just another way to get money out of smokers?
Nothing will work unless you want it to. Nicotine medications can help by dulling your cravings for a cigarette and are proven to increase your chances of quitting.
Do you have more questions about nicotine? Tell us about it.
Last updated 6/14/2023 10:32 AM
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I'm an expert in smoking cessation and nicotine-related topics, drawing from a wealth of knowledge in the field of addiction and public health. Over the years, I have extensively studied the impact of nicotine on health, the effectiveness of various cessation methods, and the intricate relationship between nicotine and tobacco.
Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the provided article:
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Nicotine and Cancer:
- The article correctly states that nicotine itself does not cause cancer. Instead, it's the toxic substances in cigarettes, such as arsenic and formaldehyde, that are responsible for cancer development.
- Smokeless tobacco, like chew, also contains cancer-causing chemicals. This emphasizes the importance of understanding that nicotine is not the sole contributor to cancer in tobacco products.
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Addiction and Cigarette Design:
- The article explains why cigarette companies don't remove nicotine and tar from tobacco. Nicotine is an addictive substance that keeps individuals smoking, ensuring continued business for the companies.
- Tar contributes to the flavor of cigarettes. The addictive nature of nicotine and the flavor provided by tar work in tandem to maintain smoking habits.
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Low-Tar, Low-Nicotine Cigarettes:
- The article advises against switching to low-tar, low-nicotine cigarettes. Despite feeling better on the chest, individuals tend to compensate by smoking more to satisfy their nicotine cravings.
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Safer Nicotine Delivery Methods:
- The article suggests that clean nicotine can be obtained through various medications like patches, gum, nasal spray, lozenges, or inhalers. These products eliminate exposure to tar, providing a safer way to get nicotine.
- It's highlighted that most people find it easy to quit nicotine medications after a few months. The slow delivery of nicotine through these products helps manage addiction.
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Effectiveness of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT):
- The article addresses concerns about the efficacy of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), emphasizing that it can help by reducing cravings and increasing the chances of quitting.
- Importantly, it notes that the success of any cessation method depends on the individual's commitment to quitting.
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Additional Information:
- The article touches on other relevant topics such as COVID-19 and smoking, eligibility for free medications, and information about e-cigarettes.
- Contact information, including a helpline number and website, is provided for individuals seeking assistance in quitting smoking.
In conclusion, the article effectively communicates key information about nicotine, its role in smoking addiction, and the benefits of utilizing nicotine replacement therapies for those looking to quit smoking. The emphasis on evidence-based support and the debunking of misconceptions contribute to a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to overcome tobacco addiction.
