Quitting smoking is one of the most important decisions you can make for your health. In Australia, smoking remains the leading preventable cause of death and disease, but the good news is that your body begins to heal almost immediately after your last cigarette. Within just 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop, and within 12 hours, carbon monoxide levels in your blood return to normal.
The benefits of quitting smoking continue to improve over time:
With cigarette prices in Australia among the highest globally, quitting smoking can save you thousands of dollars annually. Beyond personal health and financial benefits, quitting smoking protects your family from secondhand smoke and sets a positive example for children. While withdrawal symptoms like irritability, cravings, and anxiety are common in the first few weeks, these temporary discomforts are far outweighed by the long-term mental health benefits, including reduced stress and improved mood.
Nicotine replacement therapy helps manage withdrawal symptoms by providing controlled amounts of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke. NRT products are widely available in Australian pharmacies and can significantly increase your chances of successfully quitting smoking when used as part of a comprehensive quit plan.
Nicotine patches are available in various strengths (7mg, 14mg, 21mg) from brands like Nicabate and Habitrol, providing steady nicotine release over 16-24 hours. Nicotine gum comes in 2mg and 4mg strengths with flavours including mint, fruit, and original, requiring proper chewing technique with intermittent parking against the cheek for optimal absorption.
Nicotine lozenges dissolve slowly in your mouth, providing discreet relief from cravings, while nicotine inhalers and nasal sprays offer rapid nicotine delivery for immediate craving control. Many healthcare professionals recommend combination therapy, such as using patches for baseline nicotine levels alongside gum or lozenges for breakthrough cravings.
Your choice of NRT should depend on your smoking habits, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Heavy smokers may benefit from higher-strength products or combination therapy, while lighter smokers might find lower-dose options sufficient. Consult with your pharmacist to determine the most suitable NRT approach for your individual quit journey.
Champix works by blocking nicotine receptors in the brain, reducing both cravings and the pleasurable effects of smoking. The standard dosage begins with 0.5mg once daily for three days, increasing to 0.5mg twice daily, then 1mg twice daily for the remainder of the 12-week course. Treatment should start one week before your chosen quit date.
Originally developed as an antidepressant, Zyban helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with quitting smoking. It's particularly beneficial for smokers who experience mood changes when attempting to quit, as it helps stabilise neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
Both medications require a prescription from your GP, who will assess your medical history and current health status. Common side effects may include nausea, sleep disturbances, and mood changes. These medications are contraindicated for certain conditions including pregnancy, seizure disorders, and severe mental health conditions.
Clinical studies show prescription medications can double or triple your chances of successfully quitting compared to willpower alone. Many Australians benefit from PBS subsidies, making these treatments more affordable when prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Herbal supplements such as St. John's Wort, valerian root, and passionflower are often promoted for their calming properties during the quitting process. However, evidence for their effectiveness remains limited, and it's important to consult your pharmacist about potential interactions with other medications.
Modern technology offers valuable support through smartphone apps that track progress, provide motivational messages, and calculate health improvements. The Quitline (13 7848) provides free telephone counselling from trained specialists, while local support groups offer peer encouragement and shared experiences.
Creating smoke-free environments at home and work reinforces your commitment. Consider dietary supplements like vitamin C and B-complex to support your body's recovery, while omega-3 fatty acids may help manage mood fluctuations during the quitting process.
Developing a personalised quit smoking plan significantly increases your chances of success. Start by setting a realistic quit date within the next two weeks, allowing yourself time to prepare mentally and practically for the journey ahead. This preparation period is crucial for building confidence and motivation.
Recognise your smoking triggers, such as stress, social situations, or daily routines, and develop healthy coping strategies like deep breathing exercises, physical activity, or mindfulness techniques. Building a strong support network of family, friends, and healthcare professionals provides encouragement during challenging moments.
Most successful quitters combine multiple cessation methods, such as nicotine replacement therapy with behavioural support or counselling. Track your progress daily and celebrate milestones, whether it's your first smoke-free day or reaching one month tobacco-free. Remember that setbacks are common – if you slip up, learn from the experience and recommit to your quit plan. Long-term maintenance involves identifying high-risk situations and having strategies ready to prevent relapse, ensuring your smoke-free lifestyle becomes permanent.
Australia offers comprehensive support services to help you quit smoking successfully. Quitline 13 7848 provides free, confidential telephone counselling from trained specialists available throughout the country. These experienced counsellors offer personalised advice, practical strategies, and ongoing support tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
The Australian Government's Quit website offers evidence-based online programs, mobile apps, and educational materials designed specifically for Australian smokers. Many community health centres run group programs and individual counselling sessions, whilst your local pharmacy provides professional consultations, nicotine replacement therapy advice, and ongoing monitoring of your quit journey.
Your GP can provide medical supervision, prescribe cessation medications, and refer you to specialist services when needed. Specialised programs cater to specific populations:
These services ensure culturally sensitive, targeted support that addresses the unique challenges faced by different groups within the Australian community.
