I Need Help Quitting Smoking and Vaping

1 Big Thing

Smoking and vaping can be tough habits to break, but effective treatments exist. Combining certain medications with behavioral support is often key to success.

Why It Matters

Quitting smoking and vaping can improve your health and increase your lifespan. Many people struggle with quitting, but knowing the right strategies can make a big difference.

Between the Lines

For smoking cessation, medications like varenicline and combination nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) are highly recommended (Rigotti et al., 2022). For vaping, the evidence is still emerging, but varenicline may offer some benefits (Butler et al., 2025).

Go Deeper

What Are the First-Line Treatments for Smoking Cessation?

For smoking cessation, varenicline and combination NRT are considered first-line treatments (Rigotti et al., 2022). Varenicline helps by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while NRT provides steady nicotine levels through patches and quicker relief via gum or lozenges (Patnode et al., 2021).

These medications should be paired with behavioral support such as counseling or digital programs to boost quitting success rates (Krist et al., 2021). Combining these approaches makes it more likely that smokers will quit and stay smoke-free in the long run.

If varenicline or combination NRT isn't suitable, bupropion is another option (Rigotti et al., 2022). As with the other treatments, bupropion should also be used alongside behavioral methods for the best results.

How Effective Is Varenicline for Quitting Smoking?

Varenicline works by partially blocking nicotine's effects, which reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings (Selby & Zawertailo, 2022). In studies, varenicline has shown to be generally superior to both NRT and bupropion for helping people quit smoking (Rigotti et al., 2022).

The usual dosage involves gradually increasing the amount over the first week, starting with 0.5mg once and increasing to 1mg twice daily (Rigotti et al., 2022). This helps your body adjust and potentially leads to increased success in quitting smoking.

Can Behavioral Support Help Quit Smoking?

Behavioral support is essential for those trying to quit smoking as it addresses the psychological and habitual aspects of smoking (Fiore & Baker, 2011). Counseling, support groups, and quit lines are effective forms of behavioral support to increase the likelihood of staying smoke-free (Krist et al., 2021).

For many, digital tools such as apps and text messages offer flexible and accessible support. These tools can track progress and provide encouragement, keeping you motivated to quit smoking for good.

Are There Specific Treatments for Quitting Vaping?

For vaping, evidence on effective treatments is still limited, but varenicline might help (Butler et al., 2025). Studies suggest that varenicline can increase vaping cessation rates, although the certainty of these findings is low (Rigotti et al., 2022).

Behavioral interventions such as text messaging, especially for young people, can support vaping cessation efforts (Butler et al., 2025). These methods aim to reduce vape usage while promoting healthier habits.

What Are the Side Effects of Smoking Cessation Medications?

Common side effects of varenicline include nausea, insomnia, and vivid dreams (Selby & Zawertailo, 2022). It's important to follow the instructed dosage and speak with a healthcare professional about any concerns.

NRT can sometimes cause skin irritation from the patch or mouth soreness from gum or lozenges (Rigotti et al., 2022). Adjusting the method of delivery or dosage might help manage these side effects while maintaining treatment benefits.

About Well Revolution

Well Revolution is a concierge, chat-based primary care service requiring no appointments. Get prescriptions, refills, and unlimited same-day support from your dedicated PCP, seven days a week.

Closing

Health concerns, no matter how minor they may seem, can severely impact your overall well-being and quality of life. If you're experiencing symptoms or have concerns about a specific health condition, remember that timely and expert advice is key. Navigating healthcare can be challenging, but finding the right primary care physician shouldn't be. Whether you're seeking medical advice, a prescription or care, immediate access to expert primary care is just a button away. Don't leave your health to chance - consult a Well Revolution primary care provider today for peace of mind and professional care.

References

1. Rigotti NA, Kruse GR, Livingstone-Banks J, Hartmann-Boyce J. Treatment of Tobacco Smoking: A Review. JAMA. 2022;327(6):566-577. doi:10.1001/jama.2022.0395.

2. Selby P, Zawertailo L. Tobacco Addiction. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2022;387(4):345-354. doi:10.1056/NEJMcp2032393.

3. Patnode CD, Henderson JT, Coppola EL, et al. Interventions for Tobacco Cessation in Adults, Including Pregnant Persons: Updated Evidence Report and Systematic Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force. JAMA. 2021;325(3):280-298. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.23541.

4. US Preventive Services Task Force, Krist AH, Davidson KW, et al. Interventions for Tobacco Smoking Cessation in Adults, Including Pregnant Persons: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement. JAMA. 2021;325(3):265-279. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.25019.

5. Butler AR, Lindson N, Livingstone-Banks J, et al. Interventions for Quitting Vaping. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. 2025;11:CD016058. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD016058.pub3.

6. Fiore MC, Baker TB. Treating Smokers in the Health Care Setting. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2011;365(13):1222-31. doi:10.1056/NEJMcp1101512.