Nicotine Coupons & Prices

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is an FDA-approved aid to quitting smoking that eases withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and it comes in over-the-counter forms (patch, gum, lozenge) as well as prescription forms like Nicotrol NS nasal spray. Because some NRT products can cost less with a coupon or when your provider writes a prescription, you can use an Rx.com nicotine coupon to compare today's price at pharmacies near you before you buy. Enter your ZIP above to see today's price on the form you want.

What nicotine replacement therapy is and how it works

Nicotine replacement therapy delivers a controlled, lower dose of nicotine without the tar and other harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke. By replacing some of the nicotine your body is used to, it reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms while you break the habit of smoking. It is a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist and is not a controlled substance.

NRT is sold under brand names including Nicorette, NicoDerm CQ, Nicotrol NS, Habitrol, and Commit, and in store-brand generics. Common forms include:

• Transdermal patch (long-acting) - worn on the skin to provide a steady level of nicotine through the day.
• Gum and lozenge (fast-acting, over the counter) - used as needed to handle sudden cravings.
• Nasal spray (Nicotrol NS, prescription) - the fastest-acting form. The Nicotrol inhaler has been discontinued.

Many people do best with combination therapy - a long-acting patch plus a fast-acting gum, lozenge, or spray - which research shows works better than a single product. Any form works best when paired with a behavioral support or quit program.

How to save on nicotine with an Rx.com coupon

Even though most nicotine products are available over the counter, prices vary a lot from pharmacy to pharmacy, and some OTC items are cheaper with a coupon or when your provider writes a prescription. An Rx.com coupon lets you compare the cash price on the patch, gum, lozenge, or prescription nasal spray at pharmacies near you. Enter your ZIP above to see today's price, then show the coupon at the pharmacy counter.

A generic version of nicotine is widely available, and store-brand patches, gum, and lozenges are typically the lowest-cost option. There is no manufacturer copay savings card for nicotine NRT. If you use a specific brand such as Nicorette or NicoDerm CQ, you can check that manufacturer's official website for any current offers, though terms vary.

How nicotine compares to other quit-smoking options

Nicotine replacement is one of several proven ways to quit. The main prescription alternatives do not contain nicotine at all and work on the brain in different ways:

• varenicline (brand Chantix) - a prescription pill that reduces cravings and blunts the reward from smoking.
• bupropion (marketed for quitting as Zyban) - a prescription pill that can help reduce the urge to smoke.
• Nicotrol - the prescription nicotine nasal spray form of NRT.

NRT has the advantage of being available over the counter and can be combined with a behavioral program. Some people use NRT together with a prescription medication under a clinician's guidance. Your provider can help you choose the approach most likely to work for you.

Safety and side effects

Nicotine NRT has no boxed warning, but use extra caution if you have had a recent heart attack (within about two weeks), serious or worsening irregular heartbeats, or severe or worsening chest pain (angina), because nicotine can raise your heart rate and blood pressure. Talk with your provider before using NRT if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side effects depend on the form: skin irritation with the patch; mouth, throat, or jaw soreness and hiccups with gum or lozenges; and nasal or throat irritation, sneezing, watery eyes, and a runny nose with the nasal spray. The nasal spray carries a higher potential for dependence than other NRT forms. Nicotine is highly toxic if swallowed in overdose, so keep all products - including used patches and chewed gum - safely away from children and pets, since even small amounts can cause serious poisoning. This information is not medical advice; follow the package directions and ask your provider or pharmacist if you have questions.