Researchers claim they have the winning combination to quit smoking

From nicotine patches, to gum, to lozenges, there are many tools out there to help smokers kick the habit, but little research has been done comparing how well these products work. But a new study from the University of Wisconsin has found that pairing the nicotine patch with nicotine lozenges, as needed, is the best aid for those trying to kick the habit.

In the study, over 1,500 smokers who were motivated to quit were randomly assigned to 12 weeks of treatment with one or a combination of the following: nicotine patch, nicotine lozenge, bupropion, an antidepressant that reduces nicotine withdrawal symptoms, or a placebo. Smoking rates were assessed after one week, 8 weeks, and 6 months after the quit date.

Researchers found that pairing nicotine lozenges with the nicotine patch was the only treatment they tested which worked better than placebo at 6 months. Those using this treatment were also more likely than other participants to have quit at 7 days, and they showed a longer period of time before relapsing.

This research suggests that using additional treatments that can be used as needed, when cravings come on, such as gum or lozenges, alongside the patch is the best plan for smokers trying to quit.