Quitting

There are many ways to quit smoking, and the best way is the one that works for you. Combining the right tools and support can nearly triple your chances of quitting smoking. 

If you are an adult that currently smokes cigarettes regularly, switching completely to vaping products can be a less harmful option for your health. However, vaping should be accompanied with the intention to eventually stop vaping, as it is not a risk-free alternative. Young people, individuals who are pregnant and those who do not use tobacco products should not vape.

Vaping nicotine can lead to physical dependence and addiction, along with exposing you to chemicals that can be harmful to your health.

Support exists for those who want to reduce their nicotine use or have made the decision to quit. For help, call the helpline at 1-866-366-3667 or visit Tobacco Free NB. You will find a free evidence-based strategy and trained professionals ready to build your individualized program. Your Quit Coach will help you set goals, inform you about quit aids and help you through cravings.

If someone is using vaping as a tool to quit smoking, it might be a step in the right direction. Vaping is less harmful than smoking because it eliminates many toxic chemicals found in cigarettes. However, it still exposes the person to harmful substances and addictive nicotine, which can damage the individual’s lungs and heart. While it may help smokers switch away from cigarettes, it’s not safe—especially for non-smokers—since the long-term health effects are still unknown.

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can be best for those with severe nicotine dependence or withdrawal symptoms. Patches, gums, lozenges, inhalers and mouth sprays have also been proven safe for youth to use.

Behaviour strategies are recommended as a first line therapy. Strategies include:

• try to reduce how much nicotine you smoke or vape
• do not carry your vape with you
• when experiencing a craving, keep yourself busy; cravings only last, on average, a few minutes
• try to delay vaping for as long as possible each time
• speak with your healthcare provider about nicotine replacement therapy (patch, gum, lozenges, inhaler or mouth spray)