Quitting smoking on your own can be tough, but many people choose to do it independently and successfully become smoke free. Nicotine cravings, habits, and daily routines can make stopping difficult, especially in the early stages, but there are many tools and aids that can help make the process more manageable.
Keep scrolling to find out more.
NRT medicines provide you with a low level of nicotine without the tar, carbon monoxide and other poisonous chemicals.
These are a great way to manage any withdrawal effects, such as bad moods and cravings, which may occur while trying to stop smoking.
Products can be bought over the counter or from your pharmacist. In some cases, it’s available for free or on prescription from your local Stop Smoking Service or GP
While not completely harmless, vaping is one of the most effective tools to help you stop smoking. This is because it mimics the hand to mouth action people associate with smoking cigarettes.
Sometimes called e-cigarettes or e-cigs, they come in different nicotine strengths, so you can control your nicotine intake as and when you need help with cravings. It also means you can progressively lessen the amount as you feel more comfortable throughout your journey to smoke free.
Although less well-known, nicotine-free medicines are a great tool to help you stop smoking. There are 3 main options to choose from, which are available from your GP by prescription.
By speaking to someone from a local support group, they can help you determine which one will be best for you. Designed to help block nicotine’s effects in your brain, they will reduce your cravings over time.
Research shows that having a discussion with a professional helps you find the right stop smoking treatment and increases your chances of stopping for good.
The NHS can help you create a Personalised Stop Smoking Plan. It’s quick and only takes a few minutes. The answers you provide will create a step-by-step guide personalised to your needs.
Many pharmacies offer stop smoking schemes with tailored advice and nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) to help you quit.
A GP can prescribe nicotine-free medicines. When you combine this medicine with NRTs, you are over 5 times more likely to quit smoking for good!
You can also reach out to the National Smokefree Helpline to talk to a trained adviser for advice and support.
Call 0300 123 1044 (England only).
Lines are open:
Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm
Saturday and Sunday, 11am to 4pm
