RCTs including over 2000 people suggest that nicotine gum improved continued abstinence rates among adults who had quit smoking on their own (on average, 225 vs 182 per 1000 people had maintained cessation at 12 months). However, behavioral interventions seemed to have no impact on findings of trials including around 3500 people. The behavioral interventions examined in the negative trials were quite varied and included mailing relapse prevention booklets, receiving telephone support from a quit‐line, and reading tailored advice letters and self‐help materials. The quality of all trials was uncertain due to failure to report adequate randomization and blinding and high trial withdrawal rates.

For effects of relapse prevention in other populations, see CCA 2613 (for pregnant women), 2614 (for hospitalized patients), and 2616 (for adults who quit smoking after receiving assistance).