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Condition guide · /quit-smoking/
Quit smoking aids
Reviewed by Dr. Arjun Mehta, PharmD — Head Pharmacist. Updated May 2025.
1B+
Smokers worldwide
3x
Higher quit rate with Rx
12 wks
Standard course
Free
About this condition
Smoking remains the leading preventable cause of disease worldwide. The good news: quitting at any age extends life expectancy, and proven medications triple your chances compared with willpower alone. Combine medication with behavioural support for the best results.
Three first-line options exist: nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges), varenicline (Champix), and bupropion (Zyban). Varenicline has the highest success rate in head-to-head trials but is prescription-only. NRT works best when long-acting (patch) is combined with a fast-acting form (gum, lozenge, spray).
Treatment options
Nicotine patches
Long-acting steady release. Use full 12-week course. Combine with gum or lozenges for cravings.
Nicotine gum / lozenges
Varenicline (Champix)
Highest success rate in trials. Start 1–2 weeks before quit date. 12-week course.
Bupropion (Zyban)
Antidepressant licensed for smoking cessation. Useful in patients with low mood. Avoid if seizure history.
Common questions
How long should I take quit-smoking medication?
Typically 12 weeks. Longer courses are reasonable in those at risk of relapse.
Will I gain weight?
Some weight gain is common (3–4 kg average) but is outweighed by the health benefits of quitting.
What if I slip up?
Most quitters slip several times before quitting for good. Treat any cigarette as a slip, not a failure, and continue the medication.
Dr. Arjun Mehta, PharmD · Head Pharmacist
/our-pharmacists/arjun-mehta/ — Reviewed May 2025
This guide is reviewed every 12 months or sooner when clinical guidance changes. If you have a specific medical question, call our pharmacist team — we answer the phone, not a bot.
