Quitting is much more than breaking a habit – it’s a complete lifestyle change.

The two main allies you need when giving up smoking are motivation and willpower. But you don’t need to go it alone. The Co-operative Pharmacy can help with practical advice and products to help you give up for good.

And if you have already tried before, don’t regard it negatively. The very fact that you have given up before is a plus. You know you can do it! And every smoke-free week is a bonus to your body and your pocket.

Four good reasons to quit for good…

• You’ll reduce your risk of cancers and another major killer – heart disease.
  
• You’ll protect the health of friends and family by eliminating the risk of passive smoking.
  
• You’ll smell nicer and your skin and hair will lose that parched look. Your teeth will be cleaner and your breath will be sweeter.
  
• You’ll save hundreds of pounds. That’s a holiday or a year’s gym membership or a spot of guilt-free retail therapy.

Easing off

If you don't feel ready to go cold turkey, there are many nicotine-based products to wean you off the habit gently. Pop in to talk to your local Co-operative pharmacist and we'll gladly help you decide which will be best for you.

Here are some of the products available to help you kick the habit for good:

Nicotine gum

The nicotine is absorbed through the lining of your mouth

Nicotine patches

These work well for most regular smokers and can be worn around the clock or just during the day

Microtabs

Small tablets, which dissolve under your tongue

Lozenges

Suck them slowly to release nicotine

Inhalers

Good for people who miss the ‘hand to mouth’ aspect of smoking

Nasal spray

Delivers a dose of nicotine through the lining of your nose


For more advice, visit our stop smoking guide or call the NHS smoking helpline FREE on 0800 022 4332.