Free Nicotine Replacement Therapy Is Available for Some Australians
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Quitting smoking can be challenging, but you don’t necessarily have to do it alone.
If you live in Victoria or South Australia, you may be eligible to access free combination nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) together with personalised support from Quitline.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)?
Nicotine replacement therapy provides nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke. It can help reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms while you work towards stopping smoking.
Common forms of NRT include:
- Nicotine patches
- Nicotine gum
- Nicotine lozenges
- Nicotine mouth spray
Different types work in different ways. A nicotine patch, for example, releases nicotine gradually through the skin, while gum, lozenges and mouth spray are faster acting and can be used when cravings occur.
Why are two types of NRT sometimes used together?
This is known as combination NRT.
It generally involves using:
A nicotine patch
for a steady level of nicotine throughout the day
+
A faster-acting NRT
such as gum, a lozenge or mouth spray for cravings when they occur.
Quit advises that using a nicotine patch together with a faster-acting NRT gives people a better chance of stopping smoking than using one type of NRT alone.
However, the right approach can differ from person to person. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which options and doses may be appropriate for you.
Free NRT may be available in Victoria and South Australia
Quit has announced that eligible people in Victoria and South Australia may be able to receive free combination NRT alongside tailored support from trained Quitline counsellors.
According to Quit, you may be eligible if you:
- Live in Victoria or South Australia
- Are trying or planning to quit smoking
- Are a new Quitline client willing to receive call-back counselling, or an existing client who is within two weeks of quitting
Quitline counsellors will assess individual eligibility.
How can you access it?
You can contact Quitline directly on 13 7848 and ask about free combination NRT and counselling.
A health professional or support service can also refer you to Quitline.
If you aren’t eligible for the free program, that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. NRT products such as patches, gum and lozenges are widely available, and some nicotine patches can also be accessed at a discounted price through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) with a prescription.
Your doctor or pharmacist can help you understand the options available to you.
Medication can help with cravings. Support can help with everything around them.
Nicotine dependence is only one part of quitting.
Stress, routines, social situations and everyday triggers can all make it harder to stay on track. That’s why combining appropriate treatment with behavioural support can be valuable.
Quitline counsellors can help people identify their triggers, develop a personalised quit plan and work through challenges that come up along the way.
And if you’ve tried before and started smoking again, that doesn’t mean another attempt isn’t worth making. It can take several attempts before someone stops smoking successfully.
Finding the approach that works for you
There isn’t one quitting method that’s right for everyone.
For some people, NRT may be appropriate. Others may need a different approach or additional support. What matters is having a plan and knowing where to turn when cravings or setbacks happen.
Speak with a registered doctor or pharmacist about treatment options appropriate for your circumstances, or contact Quitline for free quitting support.
Quitline: 13 7848
Learn more: Visit Quit’s information about free NRT and quitting support.
This article provides general information only and is not medical advice or a recommendation of any treatment or product. Always speak with a registered doctor or pharmacist about treatment options appropriate for you.