Stop Smoking Services

Methods to Quit Using Tobacco

There are a variety of methods to quit using tobacco. Success rates will vary considerably.

Following is a list of options, in ascending order of intensity:

1. Try self-help materials. Three good sources:
   • The American Lung Association
   • The American Cancer Society
   • From the National Cancer Institute
     
     
2. Ask your personal physician to help you develop an action plan.
3. Seek counseling from a local counselor experienced in helping people stop smoking.
4. Try a treatment program sponsored by hospitals or other organizations in your community.
5. Consider using a medication to help you. Nicotine replacement medications (patches, nicotine gum, nicotine nasal spray, and nicotine inhaler) are mainstays of treatment. Other drugs such as bupropion have been found to help. Some products are available over the counter; others are by prescription only. Your best resource for these products is your personal healthcare provider.
6. Try one of the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center programs.