stopsmoking

Stopsmoking is the process of ceasing tobacco use and overcoming nicotine dependence. It includes a range of strategies—behavioral support, pharmacotherapy, and policy measures—that help individuals quit smoking and stay smoke-free. Quitting reduces the risk of heart disease, stroke, lung cancer and COPD, and improves quality of life even in the short term.

Behavioral support helps people identify triggers, develop coping strategies, and create a quit plan. It can be delivered in person, by telephone, or online, and is often most effective when combined with medication.

Pharmacotherapy refers to medicines that ease withdrawal and reduce cravings. Nicotine replacement therapy provides controlled nicotine doses via gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, or nasal spray. Non-nicotine medicines such as varenicline and bupropion can also aid quitting and are often prescribed with behavioral support. These treatments increase quit rates compared with attempting to quit unaided, and are generally safe for most adults; they require medical advice for certain conditions and during pregnancy.

Other approaches include counseling programs, quitlines, and digital tools. Some smokers use e-cigarettes as a harm-reduction or cessation aid, though safety and long-term effectiveness are actively studied, and regulatory status varies by country.

No single method guarantees success, and relapse is common. Effective cessation often involves planning for triggers, managing stress, avoiding high-risk situations, and setting a definite quit date. Public health programs promote access to counseling and affordable medications to improve population quit rates.