United Kingdom Background
Data sourced: more than 5 years ago.   Page updated: 2026-05-15

In United Kingdom you don't need a prescription to purchase NRT. NRT represent an estimated market size of 165.4 million €. Advertising of NRT is allowed. NRT are available for purchase in many general shops without a prescription.

Product promotion

165.4 million €
1
2019
22.7 €
1
2019
References:
  1. Consumer Health: Euromonitor from trade sources/national statistics. Date Exported: 8/9/2019. (c) Euromonitor International 2019

Availability

Yes
1
2019
Yes
1
2019
many general shops without a prescription
1
2019
References:
  1. WHO Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic 2019. https://www.who.int/tobacco/global_report/en/ (2019).

Publications

The Global State of Tobacco Harm Reduction 2024: A Situation Report

This Briefing Paper summarises The Global State of Tobacco Harm Reduction 2024: A Situation Report, which uses the latest evidence and new data projections to report on the current global THR situation and its potential to rapidly reduce the burden of disease and mortality associated with risky tobacco use.


A smokefree UK? How research, policy and vapes have cut smoking rates

The number of people who vape in the United Kingdom is soon set to exceed the number who smoke for the first time. This Briefing Paper explores the United Kingdom’s progress towards becoming smokefree, highlighting both the successes and the challenges.


Tobacco harm reduction and people experiencing homelessness – a UK perspective

With such high smoking rates among people who experience homelessness or rough sleeping in the UK, this Briefing Paper looks at the potential for tobacco harm reduction to help reduce the health inequalities seen in this vulnerable population.

The GSTHR database is updated regularly by our team. However, please be aware that the information we provide does not constitute legal advice. We cannot guarantee that the information is up to date or accurate, as the regulatory status of different product categories can change at short notice and with little publicity. If you wish to check the legal status of use or possession of any safer nicotine product in a specific country or region, you should verify the information independently. If you have reason to think that the information supplied on the GSTHR is inaccurate, please contact us with details and any references and we will rectify any errors.