Medically Approved Ways to Quit Smoking in Australia: Your Complete Guide
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If you’re thinking about quitting smoking, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Australians look for safe, effective ways to quit. The good news? There are proven, medically approved options available to help you stop smoking and improve your health.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most trusted quit-smoking methods available in Australia, explain how they work, and show you how to access them easily—without the guesswork.
Why Quitting Smoking Matters
Smoking harms nearly every organ in the body. It increases the risk of heart disease, lung conditions, stroke, and even affects your skin’s appearance. The good news is that once you stop smoking, your body starts to heal almost immediately:
- Breathing becomes easier.
- Energy levels improve.
- Your risk of illness decreases.
- Overall health and quality of life get better.
However, quitting smoking is not always easy. That’s why having access to proper medical support and quit-smoking aids can make a real difference.
What Are the Approved Methods to Quit Smoking in Australia?
Health authorities in Australia recommend a combination of strategies to help people quit smoking. The main medically approved options include:
1. Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
NRT helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms by providing a controlled dose of nicotine—without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes.
Common NRT options include:
- Nicotine Patches: Deliver a steady dose of nicotine through the skin.
- Nicotine Gum: Helps manage cravings when chewed.
- Nicotine Lozenges: Dissolve in the mouth, releasing nicotine slowly.
- Mouth Sprays: Provide quick craving relief.
- Inhalers: Mimic the hand-to-mouth action of smoking while delivering nicotine safely.
2. Prescription Medications
Two prescription-only medicines are approved in Australia to help people quit smoking:
- Varenicline (Champix): Reduces cravings and makes smoking less satisfying.
- Bupropion (Zyban): Helps manage withdrawal symptoms and supports mood regulation.
How to access: These medications require a doctor’s prescription, which you can obtain through QuitMed’s free online assessment.
3. Behavioural Support
Quitting is easier with the right support. Behavioural support includes:
- Talking to pharmacists, doctors, or counsellors.
- Using helplines like Quitline (13 7848).
- Joining support groups or using quit-smoking apps.
Combining behavioural support with medical treatments significantly increases your chances of success.
Therapeutic Vaping
Therapeutic vaping, when used under medical supervision, is a harm reduction tool designed to help smokers transition away from traditional cigarettes. Unlike recreational vaping, therapeutic vaping provides controlled doses of nicotine without the harmful tar and chemicals found in tobacco smoke. This method aims to satisfy nicotine cravings in a safer way, supporting gradual reduction and eventual cessation. In Australia, therapeutic vaping requires a prescription, ensuring it is used responsibly as part of a structured quitting plan tailored to individual needs.
Where to Buy Quit-Smoking Products in Australia
Quit-smoking aids are widely available at local pharmacies. However, many Australians prefer the convenience of online services like QuitMed, which offers:
- A wide range of nicotine products.
- Competitive prices.
- Fast, discreet home delivery.
- Professional advice from trained pharmacists.
- Simple online ordering with eScript acceptance.
Don’t have a prescription? No problem—QuitMed offers free online consultations to help you get started.
How to Quit Smoking: Step-by-Step Guide
Quitting smoking is a personal journey. Here’s a simple step-by-step approach to guide you:
Step 1: Make a Quit Plan
- Set a quit date.
- Identify your reasons for quitting.
- Prepare for triggers and challenges.
Step 2: Choose Your Quit Aids
- Decide if you’ll use NRT, prescription medications, or a combination.
- Consult with a healthcare professional for advice.
Step 3: Get Support
- Reach out to QuitMed, your doctor, or Quitline for guidance.
- Inform family and friends—they can be valuable allies.
Step 4: Stay on Track
- Follow your quit plan.
- Be kind to yourself if setbacks occur.
- Keep using your quit aids and stay connected to support services.
QuitMed Products & Services
To support your quitting journey, QuitMed offers:
- Nicotine patches (prescribed doses)
- Nicotine gum, lozenges, mouth sprays, and inhalers
- Free prescription consultations
- Fast nationwide delivery
Everything you need to quit smoking is just a few clicks away.
Tips to Stay Smoke-Free
Overcoming smoking cravings can be challenging. Here are some practical tips:
- Keep your hands busy with activities.
- Sip water or chew gum when cravings hit.
- Practice deep breathing exercises.
- Stay active with regular walks or exercise.
- Celebrate small milestones to stay motivated.
Why Choose QuitMed?
- A quick online questionnaire.
- Free 12-month prescriptions from certified doctors.
- Access to Australia’s largest range of quit-smoking products.
- Fast and reliable home delivery.
- Ongoing support from qualified healthcare professionals.
Quick Overview of Quit-Smoking Methods
| Method | How It Works | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|
| Nicotine Patch | Steady nicotine delivery | Pharmacy or Quitmed |
| Nicotine Gum | Chewed for cravings | Pharmacy or Quitmed |
| Lozenges | Dissolve in mouth | Pharmacy or Quitmed |
| Mouth Spray | Quick craving relief | Pharmacy or Quitmed |
| Inhalers | Gives nicotine through your mouth | Pharmacy or Quitmed |
| Varenicline (Champix) | Prescription drug for cravings | Doctor's prescription |
| Bupropion (Zyban) | Prescription drug for withdrawal symptoms | Doctor's prescription |
| Therapeutic Vaping | Alternative to Tobacco Smoking | Doctor's prescription, pharmacy or Quitmed |
Ready to Quit?
It's time to take control of your health. Get started today by exploring QuitMed's range of nicotine replacement therapies and prescription options.
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