Everyone's different, but anyone can quit

Nicotine vaping products (NVPs) are available with a nicotine prescription at most major pharmacies, and deliver nicotine without the thousands of harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke.

Nicotine vaping products are used in a similar fashion to traditional smoking – a familiar hand-to-mouth motion, followed by an inhalation. They may assist in curbing your nicotine cravings during common triggers, such as your morning coffee, work break, or drinks with friends.

The latest Cochrane Update (Jan 2024) found “high-certainty evidence that electronic cigarettes with nicotine increase quit rates compared to NRT”. 

PRESCRIPTION ONLY – You must hold a nicotine prescription to purchase and possess nicotine vaping products

Nicotine vaping products have not been approved as smoking cessation aids in Australia. These products are considered to be ‘unapproved’ therapeutic goods and the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has not evaluated them for quality, safety and effectiveness. Nicotine vaping products are not first-line treatments for smoking cessation. However, for people who have tried to achieve smoking cessation with approved pharmacotherapies but failed, and who are still motivated to quit smoking and have discussed nicotine vaping product usage with their healthcare practitioner, nicotine vaping products may be a reasonable intervention to recommend.

From 1 October 2024, therapeutic vapes with a nicotine concentration of 20mg/mL or less will be available in pharmacies to patients 18 years or over without a prescription.

Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) are available over-the-counter and also under prescription at most major pharmacies, and deliver nicotine to lessen your cravings and feelings of withdrawal.

They are available in a number of slower-acting and faster-acting formats, including:

  • Patches
  • Gum
  • Spray
  • Lozenges
  • Inhalator

Many people find greater success with what’s called Combination Therapy; i.e. nicotine patches AND a faster-acting NRT such as gum, spray or lozenges. This ensures that you have a steady level of nicotine during the day with that little bit of a boost whenever you feel strong cravings.

Prescribed medications are available under prescription at most major pharmacies, and are a nicotine-free alternative for quitting smoking.

Available in pill form, these are designed to imitate the effects that nicotine has on the body. This may help to reduce your cigarette cravings and ultimately help you to quit smoking.

PRESCRIPTION ONLY – You must hold a prescription to purchase and possess these medications

*The TGA has been advised that very low levels of the N-nitrosovarenicline have been detected in certain Australian products. As a precautionary measure, Pfizer Australia has paused global distribution of this product while this issue is investigated.

Counselling and behavioural support from a specialist-trained medical professional can substantially increase your chances of successful abstinence from smoking.

The most successful approach to quitting is by using one of the above therapies to reduce your nicotine cravings PLUS counselling and behavioural therapy, which may include:

  • Setting your quit date
  • Information about quitting and withdrawal
  • Strategies for coping with your triggers
  • Addressing barriers to quitting
  • Lifestyle changes
  • Support from family and friends
  • Rewarding yourself

Quitting smoking is one of the most important decisions you can make for your health. Here are the key reasons to quit, backed by research:

Long-Term Health Risks of Smoking

Smoking is linked to numerous serious health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, and chronic respiratory diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), smoking tobacco products causes about 8 million deaths per year worldwide.

Cancer Risk Reduction

Smoking is a major cause of various cancers, including lung, throat, mouth, oesophagus, and bladder cancer. According to Cancer Australia, approximately 90% of lung cancer cases in Australian men and 65% in Australian women are attributed to tobacco smoking.

Cardiovascular Health

Smoking significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare notes that smoking heightens coronary heart disease risk, which can lead to heart attacks.

Respiratory Health

Smoking damages the airways and lungs and is the leading cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other respiratory conditions, as highlighted by The World Health Organization.

Financial Savings

Smokers spend thousands of dollars annually on cigarettes. By quitting, you can redirect those funds towards healthier lifestyle choices and savings. Read our blog here to learn more about how much you could save by quitting.

Positive Impact on Loved Ones

Quitting smoking protects your family, friends and wider community from the dangers of secondhand smoke. The Department of Health and Aged Care details the adverse effects of secondhand smoke.

Mental Health Benefits

Quitting smoking can improve mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and stress levels. A study in the medical journal BMJ found that quitting smoking is associated with reduced depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as improved mood and quality of life.