NiQuitin is a range of nicotine replacement products designed to help smokers quit by replacing the nicotine supplied by cigarettes with a lower, steadier level in order to relieve withdrawal.[1] This is to help users wean off nicotine gradually.[2] Nicotine replacement therapy products (e.g. chewing gum, lozenges, transdermal systems) are indicated as temporary aids for cigarette smokers who want to give up smoking. They serve as alternative sources of nicotine and provide relief of nicotine withdrawal symptoms in nicotine-dependent individuals who are acutely withdrawing from cigarette smoking.[3]
Created by GlaxoSmithKline, NiQuitin was approved by the FDA in 1991,[citation needed] one of the earliest products brought to market to provide an alternative to the withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking.[citation needed] Nicotine gums were already widely used among consumers.[4]
The product is sold globally under different brand names such as Nicoderm in the US, Nicabate in Australia and New Zealand and NiQuitin CQ in China, many parts of Europe and South America.[5]