Talking to your doctor or pharmacist about quitting

Last updated May 2025

Read time 1 minute

Your GP or pharmacist is an excellent first point of contact if you're thinking about stopping smoking or vaping.

A female doctor talking to a patient

Your GP can help you quit smoking or vaping.

Your GP and pharmacist can help you quit smoking or vaping by:

  • Talking with you about the best approach for you, and advising if any medications are appropriate.

  • Reviewing your usual medicines.

  • Offering encouragement and support along the way. They can answer your questions and chat with you about any worries you might have.

  • Referring you to Quitline. Quitline 13 7848 is free telephone counselling service that supports people along their quit journey. Your GP or pharmacist can put in a referral for you, so that a friendly Quitline counsellor can call you back.

Here are some questions you may want to ask your GP and pharmacist about quitting smoking or vaping:

  • What can I do to manage symptoms of nicotine withdrawal?

  • What medications may be appropriate ?

  • How can I avoid or reduce side effects of medications?

  • Will any of my usual medicines need reviewing?

Need support now?

Contact Quitline

Speak directly with a trained quit specialist. Our counsellors are available to provide immediate support, personalised quit plans, and answer all your questions.

Get in contact with Quit

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