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Quit aids don’t do the quitting for you, but they make it much more manageable. The CDC says combining medicine with counseling gives adults who smoke the best chance of quitting for good. Here’s what’s available, what each one does, and how to choose.
The 7 FDA-approved quit smoking medicines
According to the CDC, all seven have been shown to be safe and effective for adults who smoke cigarettes.
| Medicine | Type | Prescription? | How it helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nicotine patch | NRT, long-acting | No | Steady nicotine all day to ease background cravings |
| Nicotine gum | NRT, short-acting | No | Quick relief for sudden cravings |
| Nicotine lozenge | NRT, short-acting | No | Quick relief; no chewing needed |
| Nicotine oral inhaler | NRT, short-acting | Yes | Quick relief; mimics the hand-to-mouth motion |
| Nicotine nasal spray | NRT, short-acting | Yes | The fastest-acting NRT |
| Varenicline | Pill | Yes | Reduces cravings and the reward you get from nicotine |
| Bupropion SR | Pill | Yes | Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms |
If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under 18, don’t use these medicines without talking to your doctor. Always read and follow the label.
Combining nicotine replacement products
The CDC describes a common combination: a patch plus one short-acting NRT (gum, lozenge, inhaler, or spray). The patch handles the steady background cravings, and the short-acting product covers the sudden spikes, like after a meal or during stress. Ask your pharmacist or doctor how to combine them for your level of use.
Deciding between gum, lozenges, and patches? Read Nicotine Gum vs Lozenge vs Patch.
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Getting a prescription
Varenicline, bupropion, the nicotine inhaler, and the nasal spray all need a prescription. You can get one from your regular doctor or a nurse practitioner, or through a telehealth service that offers quit-smoking care online. Your provider will check your health history and go over side effects before prescribing. Learn more in Varenicline vs NRT: How to Get a Prescription Online.
Support tools: coaching, text programs, apps, and books
Coaching
Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW for free, confidential help from a trained quit coach. Coaches can also help you decide how to use quit medicines.
Text programs
Text QUIT to 47848 (smoking) or DITCHVAPE to 88709 (vaping) for free daily support.
Apps
Free and paid apps for tracking progress, money saved, and cravings.
Some people find a mindset-based method helps. Allen Carr’s “Easy Way” book is one of the best known. Read our explainer, Allen Carr’s Easy Way: What It Is and Who It Suits.
What isn’t an approved quit aid
- E-cigarettes. The FDA has not approved any e-cigarette to help people quit smoking.
- Nicotine pouches. Products like Zyn are authorized for sale to adults but are not approved as quit aids. See Can Nicotine Pouches Help You Quit?
- “Lung detox” kits and herbal quit supplements. These aren’t FDA-approved for quitting. Be wary of products that promise to “clean your lungs” or make quitting effortless.
How to pay less
- Check your insurance. Many health plans cover quit medicines at no or low cost. Some require a prescription even for over-the-counter NRT.
- Ask your quitline. Depending on your state, 1-800-QUIT-NOW may be able to provide free NRT.
- Use FSA or HSA funds. Many NRT products are eligible.
- Choose store brands. Generic nicotine gum, lozenges, and patches contain the same active ingredient as name brands.
Put your quit aid into a plan
Medicine works best alongside a plan. Our free printable 30-day plan helps you schedule your quit aid, track cravings, and prepare for triggers.
Sources: CDC: Quit Smoking Medicines · CDC: Quitting E-Cigarettes · CDC: Quitlines · FDA: Zyn authorization. This page is general information, not medical advice. Medical disclaimer.