Overview
There are many ways to quit tobacco but it is hard to wade through all the options and find the ones that work.
Some people can quit tobacco by using resources like counseling, group support, or even cold turkey, but depending on how addicted a person is to nicotine, they may benefit from using a patch or gum to quit (nicotine replacement therapy) or medication. Research says that the best way to quit tobacco is to use a combination of NRT and counseling.
There are seven U.S. Food and Drug Association (FDA)-approved medicines that are safe and effective for helping people quit.
Done My Way Campaign
If you are thinking about stopping smoking, Done My Way testimonials offer local ideas that can help. Generally speaking, the best way to stop smoking, especially if you smoke more than a pack a day, is to use gum or patch (nicotine replacement therapy) or medication combined with counseling*. The next best is to use NRT on its own, followed by counseling on its own. No matter what you chose to do, don't give up and remember that it can take 7-10 quit attempts before a person stops smoking for good.
There are five types of nicotine replacement therapy
- Skin Patch* - a transdermal patch that gradually releases nicotine into the body through the skin.
- Gum* - a type of chewing gum that delivers nicotine to the body.
- Lozenge* - a tablet (usually flavored) that contains a dose of nicotine which dissolves slowly in the mouth to release the nicotine.
- Inhaler - a nicotine replacement device used for smoking cessation, consisting of a mouthpiece and a cartridge containing a nicotine-imbibed plug.
- Nasal spray - a nasal spray that contains a small dose of nicotine, which enters the blood by being absorbed through the lining of the nose.
*Available without a prescription
There are two non-nicotine medications
- Bupropion - an oral prescription medication that reduces tobacco cravings.
- Varenicline - a prescription medication used to treat nicotine addiction.
For more information about these cessation methods, please visit the FDA Website.
Other Cessation Resources
There are many ways to quit tobacco and a wide range of resources to help. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), in combination with counseling support, are the best way to quit tobacco.
Find Help With Quitting
Call the Washington State Quitline. Talk to a Quit Coach to get free, confidential counseling.
- Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669);
- Visit quitline.com; or
- Text READY to 200-400
Need more information? Learn more here.
