Vaping vs. Gum and Lozenges: What Australian Smokers and Vapers Should Know About Quitting

If you’re trying to quit smoking, you might be wondering which tools actually work best. A recent Australian study found that vaping can be almost three times more effective than traditional nicotine replacement therapies like gum or lozenges in helping people stop smoking.

What the Study Found

Researchers from the University of New South Wales worked with over 1,000 people who smoked daily and wanted to quit. They were all receiving government support and lived in Sydney or surrounding areas.

The participants were split into two groups: one received free nicotine vapes for eight weeks, and the other got nicotine gum or lozenges. After seven months, the group using vapes had a quit rate of 28.4%, compared to just 9.6% for the gum and lozenge group.

What This Means for You

• Vaping can be a helpful quitting tool: The study shows vaping may help more people quit smoking than gum or lozenges.

• Vaping is not an instant fix: Some people who quit smoking with vaping still use vapes for months or longer after quitting cigarettes. It’s important to think about your long-term plan to stop using nicotine altogether.

• Use safe, regulated products: Make sure you use nicotine vaping products approved by the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). These are made with strict safety standards, unlike unregulated vapes which can be risky.

• Other options still work: Nicotine patches combined with gum or lozenges remain a proven method for quitting for many people. Vaping is just one of the tools you can consider.

• Get support: Quitting smoking or vaping can be tough. Getting help from your doctor, pharmacist, or a quitline can make a big difference.

Safety and Regulation

In Australia, only TGA-approved nicotine vaping products can be legally prescribed and sold. Recently, authorities have cracked down on illegal vape sales, which may contain harmful substances. Always buy your vaping products from trusted, legal sources to stay safe.

Tips to Help You Quit

• Know your reasons: Be clear about why you want to quit, whether it’s for your health, family, or finances.

• Choose the right quitting aid: Talk to a healthcare professional about whether vaping, patches, gum, or lozenges might suit you best.

• Set realistic goals: Quitting is a journey. Some people reduce nicotine gradually before quitting completely.

• Stay connected: Reach out to support services, friends, or family who can encourage you.

• Don’t be discouraged by setbacks: Many people try several times before quitting for good. Keep trying!

Final Thoughts

If you’re a smoker thinking about quitting, this new research suggests vaping can be a more effective option than gum or lozenges. But remember, quitting is personal, and what works for one person might not work for another.

If you’re already vaping and have quit smoking, consider planning to gradually stop vaping too — your healthcare provider can help you with this.

For more information and support, speak to your pharmacist, doctor, or visit official quit services.