Smoking Quitting Aids
Want to quit smoking but you’re not sure how? Here is a list of possible resources that could help you along your journey to living a smoking-free life. Look through this list of possible options to see what quitting aids work might work right for you and how you can help yourself become smoke-free starting today.
Mobile Apps
- https://smokefree.gov/smokefreetxt
- Receive supportive text messages throughout the day to help you build up to quitting and staying quit
- https://smokefree.gov/tools-tips/quitstart
- Learn more about your smoking patterns
- Track your cravings throughout locations and days
- Receive motivational messages
- http://www.quitnow.gov.au/internet/quitnow/publishing.nsf/Content/quit-buddy
- All-encompassing quitting app
- Set your goals, upload reasons your quitting, photos, messages from loved ones, etc. to help stay motivated
- Connect with other quitters to offer support and celebrate milestones
- Offers distractions (games, etc)
- https://smokefree.gov/tools-tips/apps/quitstart
- Offers tips, inspiration, and challenges to help you achieve your quitting goal
- Offers games and other distractions
- Monitor and share your progress
Creating a quit plan
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is designed to ease the effects of withdrawal and your transition to being smoke-free by providing you with nicotine without the harmful effects of smoking. You can receive free NRT products from the Goucher College Health Center, and a variety of other places (check out support page for more info). There are many options for NRT, but choosing the right option can be confusing. You can find some information below on some of the most common products. Also, check out our support and withdrawal webpages for more information. You can also check out the Mayo Clinic website for more information.
- Nicotine Patch
- Over the counter
- A small, self-adhesive patch you apply every day
- Pros
- Available in various doses
- Easy to use
- Lasts up to 24 hours
- Can be used in combination with other quitting aids
- Can be gradually tapered off
- Cons
- Can’t quickly adjust the amount of nicotine you’re receiving
- May cause nausea, skin irritation, or sleep disturbances
- Must be replaced every 24 hours
- Nicotine Gum
- Over the counter
- Contains a small amount of nicotine that is absorbed orally
- Often used in combination with the patch or other medications
- Pros
- Available in 2 doses
- Can control sudden cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Cons
- Must be used repeatedly throughout the day
- May cause mouth irritation, nausea, or jaw soreness
- Nicotine Nasal Spray
- Prescription
- Pros
- Can control sudden cravings
- Works faster than other methods
- Use as needed
- Cons
- Must be used repeatedly throughout the day
- May cause nasal, sinus, and throat irritation
Medications
Some medications are available to help you quit smoking. More information on how to obtain these can be found on the support webpage.
- Mayo Clinic
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/quit-smoking/in-depth/quit-smoking-products/art-20045599
- Contains information about both Chantix and Zyban
- Everyday Health
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/smoking-cessation/nicotine-free-smoking-cessation-aids.aspx
- An article that can help you decide whether medication is the right choice for you
- Iodine
- https://www.iodine.com/compare/chantix-vs-zyban
- A helpful comparison if you’re deciding between Zyban and Chantix
- Iodine is a health website that includes factual information as well as patient reviews for various medications
Resources compiled by students in PSY 338: Health Psychology.