HOW SMOKO CAN HELP YOU STOP SMOKING NOW!

If you’re looking to stop smoking, you’re not alone. SMOKO now has several methods to help you quit and provides information and tips for helping smokers to quit in the form of blogs, including information on nicotine replacement therapy, local support services, and practical tips for managing cravings and preventing relapse. Let’s dive into how you can successfully start your journey to a smoke-free life.

Key Takeaways

• SMOKO offers a range of products, including E-Cigarettes, Vapes, and Sugar-Free Nicotine Gum, to support quitting smoking by providing satisfying alternatives to traditional cigarettes.

• Combining methods, such as using E-Cigarettes, seeking support from local stop smoking services, and creating a personal quit plan, significantly boosts your chances of successfully quitting.

• The benefits of quitting smoking start immediately, with health improvements and financial savings, making the journey to a smoke-free life rewarding and worthwhile.

SMOKO Products to Help You Quit Smoking

At SMOKO, we understand the challenges of quitting smoking and offer a variety of products designed to make this journey easier. The SMOKO Cigalike E-Cigarette has been helping smokers transition to a healthier lifestyle for over 10 years, providing a satisfying alternative to traditional cigarettes with our great-tasting UK-made e-liquids. These products deliver nicotine without the harmful substances found in tobacco smoke, making them an effective choice for those looking to quit smoking.

In addition to our vape devices - the SMOKO VAPE POD and the New SMOKO VAPE MAX - we now offer SMOKO Sugar-Free Nicotine Gum, which is perfect for those moments when you can’t vape but still need a nicotine fix. This gum is part of our comprehensive approach to quitting smoking, ensuring you have the right support at your fingertips and have access to nicotine for those times you are unable to vape.

For more tips and information on how to quit smoking, our blogs are a valuable resource filled with success stories and practical advice.

Proven Methods to Quit Smoking

There are numerous methods available to help you quit smoking, and combining these approaches can significantly increase your chances of success. Studies have shown that individuals are three times more likely to quit smoking when they use treatments alongside support from friends, family, or a stop smoking advisor. Local stop smoking services offer free advice, practical support, and tailored stop smoking treatment plans, making them an invaluable resource in your quitting journey.

One of the most effective methods is using E-Cigarettes. Research has demonstrated that E-Cigarettes have higher quit rates over a year compared to traditional nicotine replacement therapies, with 18% of users successfully stopping smoking versus 10% for NRT. (1)

The value of switching to vaping to stop smoking was reinforced by the Cochrane Library conducting the largest analysis to date on the use of E-Cigarettes, finding 'high-certainty' evidence that E-Cigarettes are more effective for quitting than other forms of nicotine replacement therapy NRT. (2)

Another popular method is Allen Carr’s Easyway, a drug-free, clinically proven technique to quit smoking that has helped countless individuals break free from nicotine addiction.

Support from friends, family, and healthcare professionals can also play a crucial role in your success. Sharing your goals with loved ones and seeking encouragement can boost your motivation and help you stay on track. Additionally, consulting with a stop smoking advisor can provide personalised guidance and keep you focused on your goal.

Local Stop Smoking Services

Local stop smoking services are designed to significantly enhance your chances of quitting smoking by offering tailored support and practical advice. These services are free and include a range of options to suit your needs, from individual counselling to group sessions. Setting a quit date and seeking help from these services can dramatically improve your chances of success.

Stop smoking advisers play a vital role in guiding you through the quitting process. They help you form an action plan, set realistic goals, and maintain your motivation.

Whether you prefer in-person sessions at GP surgeries, pharmacies, or remote consultations via phone or video call, there are various formats available to suit your preferences. If you can’t find a stop smoking service in your area, it’s recommended to contact them for more information and assistance.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy Options

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) helps alleviate withdrawal symptoms by supplying a controlled amount of nicotine without the harmful substances found in tobacco. This can significantly reduce cravings and physical withdrawal symptoms, making the quitting process more manageable. NRT products can be sourced from pharmacies, shops, or through prescriptions from healthcare providers, offering a range of options to suit your needs.

There are various forms of NRT available, each with its own benefits. Nicotine patches provide a slow release of nicotine, while inhalers, gum, and sprays deliver it more quickly to combat sudden cravings. Using a combination of nicotine replacement products, such as patches with gum or sprays, has been shown to be more effective than using a single type. For instance, SMOKO Sugar-Free Nicotine Gum is a great option to help manage cravings when you can’t vape.

E-cigarettes are another viable option for quitting smoking. They allow users to inhale nicotine vapour without the toxic elements of cigarette smoke, such as carbon monoxide and tar, making them a popular choice among those looking to quit.

Managing Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms

Managing nicotine withdrawal symptoms is a critical aspect of quitting smoking. Withdrawal symptoms typically start within four to 24 hours after your last nicotine use. Avoiding triggers and environments where smoking is present can significantly reduce the temptation to smoke. Engaging in physical activity can improve your mood and alleviate feelings of restlessness during withdrawal.

Creating routines and keeping busy can effectively distract you from cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Practicing good sleep hygiene is also essential for combating insomnia experienced during withdrawal. Emotional and psychological support through therapy can help manage the mental aspects of withdrawal, making the process more bearable.

Additionally, using a free Personal Quit Plan can help you manage cravings and identify triggers effectively.

Stop Smoking Medicines

Prescription stop smoking medicines can be effective aids in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms during the cessation process. Varenicline is a non-nicotine pill that requires a prescription and has a unique mechanism that may help individuals who have previously failed to quit using other methods. This medication works by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier to quit smoking. (3)

Another prescription medication is bupropion (4), which works differently than nicotine replacement therapies. Like varenicline, bupropion is known to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking. Both of these medicines can be effective tools in your quitting arsenal, helping to make the transition to a smoke-free life smoother and more manageable.

The Role of E-Cigarettes in Quitting

E-cigarettes have emerged as a popular and effective tool for quitting smoking. They are a type of nicotine replacement therapy that allows users to inhale nicotine vapour without the harmful substances found in tobacco smoke. Research has shown that E-Cigarettes may be more effective than other NRT products, providing a satisfying alternative to traditional cigarettes.

Personal success stories highlight the impact of E-Cigarettes in quitting smoking. Products like SMOKO E-Cigarettes can assist individuals in stopping smoking, offering a viable and effective solution for those looking to quit.

What About the Negative Press Regarding Vaping?

As vaping has now been around for a few years, we have seen a variety of headlines that disparage vaping as a harm reduction tool for smokers. From the instances of E-Cigarette and Vaping Associated Lung Injury (EVALI) in the United States, to disposable vapes getting into the hands of underage teens, there is no shortage of bad press around vaping. Action on Smoking and Health conducted a survey that indicated 40% of UK smokers wrongly believe that vaping is as harmful or worse than smoking! (5)

While information on long-term vaping is scarce, these instances of negative experience are explained. EVALI in the U.S was found to be a result of adding illicit substances to e-liquid using a chemical called vitamin E acetate that was found in all lung samples of EVALI cases.

It is undeniable that underage vaping is a concern, from bad practices from vape companies like JUUL marketing to school children in the U.S and disposable vape companies using flavours that appeal to children, even using well known sweet brands as found in sweet shops on London's Oxford Street. Thankfully, JUUL got into serious trouble for their actions, and disposable vapes will be banned in the UK from June 2025. (6)

Benefits of Stopping Smoking

The benefits of stopping smoking are numerous and start to manifest immediately, even when you quit with E-Cigarettes. Health improvements begin right away, with increased oxygen levels and better lung function. Quitting smoking significantly lowers your chances of developing heart disease, stroke, and several forms of cancer, including lung cancer. These health benefits alone are a powerful motivator to quit smoking.

Financially, quitting smoking can save you a substantial amount of money. A person smoking 20 cigarettes daily could save approximately £5,000 annually by quitting. Weekly savings can amount to £63.84, adding up to hundreds of pounds each month. Tracking your progress and financial savings can serve as effective motivators to maintain a smoke-free life.

Beyond health and financial benefits, quitting smoking also improves your overall quality of life. You’ll enjoy better physical and mental health, increased energy levels, and a greater sense of well-being. These improvements make the journey to quitting smoking worthwhile and rewarding.

Preventing Relapse

Preventing relapse is an essential part of staying smoke-free. Identifying the triggers that led to previous smoking lapses can enhance future quitting strategies. Avoiding social situations where smoking is likely can help reduce the risk of relapse. Keeping nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) on hand rather than cigarettes can is essential in preventing relapse.

If you do experience a relapse, it’s important to treat it as practice for future attempts to quit smoking and don't be too hard on yourself as data suggests it can take the average smoker 30 attempts to finally quit (x). Setting a new quit date can refocus your efforts and be sure to re-motivate to increase your chances of success.

Remember, quitting smoking is a journey, and every step you take brings you closer to a smoke-free life.

Specialist Support Available

Specialist support is available to help you quit smoking and stay smoke-free. Stop smoking support advisers offer one-on-one appointments or group sessions, including options for phone or video consultations. These advisers help identify difficult situations that may tempt relapse and provide an emergency number for out-of-hours support.

Typically, clients meet with advisers weekly for the first month after quitting, progressively reducing contact over the subsequent weeks.

Stop smoking advisers use evidence-based methods, avoiding unsupported practices like hypnosis or acupuncture, to ensure you receive the most effective support.

Summary

Quitting smoking is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding journey. With the right tools, support, and determination, it’s entirely possible to become a non-smoker. SMOKO products, including E-Cigarettes and Sugar-Free Nicotine Gum, can provide the support you need to quit smoking effectively. Combining these products with proven methods and specialist support can significantly increase your chances of success.

Remember, the benefits of quitting smoking extend beyond improved health and financial savings. You’ll enjoy a better quality of life, increased energy, and a sense of accomplishment. Stay motivated, utilise the resources available, and take each day as a step towards a healthier, smoke-free future. You’ve got this, and SMOKO is here to help!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I replace cigarettes with?

You can replace cigarettes with nicotine replacement therapies like patches, gums, or lozenges, which help reduce cravings in a safer way. For a healthier alternative, try drinking water, chewing gum, or even enjoying a popsicle to keep your hands and mouth busy.

What SMOKO products can help me quit smoking?

SMOKO has a variety of products like E-Cigarettes, Vapes, and Sugar-Free Nicotine Gum that can really support your quit-smoking journey. Give them a try to find what works best for you!

How can local stop smoking services help me?

Local stop smoking services can really boost your chances of quitting by offering free advice, practical support, and personalised treatment plans. They're there to help you every step of the way!

What are the benefits of using e-cigarettes to quit smoking?

Using E-Cigarettes to quit smoking can be beneficial because they deliver nicotine without the harmful substances in tobacco smoke and can lead to higher success rates than traditional nicotine replacement therapies. They may help make the transition away from smoking easier and more effective.

REFERENCES

(1) E-cigarettes compared with nicotine replacement therapy within the UK Stop Smoking Services: the TEC RCT

(2) Latest Cochrane Review finds high certainty evidence that nicotine e-cigarettes are more effective than traditional nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT) in helping people quit smoking

(3) NHS: Common questions about varenicline

(4) National Institute for Health and Care Excellence: Bupropion hydrochloride

(5) ASH: Four in ten smokers wrongly believe that vaping is as or more harmful as smoking

(6) Disposable vapes banned to protect children's health

(7) Estimating the number of quit attempts it takes to quit smoking successfully in a longitudinal cohort of smokers

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Written by Dan Overgage

Dan Overgage is a former smoker of 10 years until he became a client of SMOKO E-Cigarettes.  Dan started working with SMOKO 5 years ago after successfully quitting using our e-cigarettes and works across our Customer Service and heads up our content creation and research with a strong focus on all things quitting smoking.  During his tenure with SMOKO, Dan has written countless blogs and consults with countless clients every day to help them to stay smoke-free.