Other methods

You may want to try other products or methods to help you quit. Although they haven’t all shown the same effectiveness, here is some information about them.

Alternative methods

Certain alternative approaches, such as acupuncture, hypnosis, aversion therapy, phytotherapy, and homeopathy, can help with smoking cessation. However, no scientific study has confirmed their effectiveness.

The relaxation effect of some approaches may be of help as a complement to a pharmacological aid. But before turning to one of these approaches, get information on the therapist's training, the safety of the method or means used, the number of sessions, the cost and whether it can be reimbursed by your insurance plan.

If you are planning to use natural products, get information from a doctor or pharmacist on the risks of interaction with other medications that you might be taking.

What about electronic cigarettes?

In recent years, many smokers have turned to e-cigarettes to help them quit. However, we recommend that smokers first try proven methods to stop smoking, like nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gums, lozenges, inhaler or mouth spray), bupropion, or varenicline. The contents and manufacturing of these products are safe and strictly regulated. What’s more, they are covered by most insurance plans.

Further research is needed on vaping and its health effects and the safety of vaping devices. Many products are available on the market, making it difficult for a potential user to choose. You should let your doctor and pharmacist know if you are using a vaping product.

In a warning published on Novembre 25, 2019, Quebec’s national public health director encourages Quebecers to avoid using vaping products, whether or not they contain nicotine. People who vape to help them quit smoking should not go back to traditional cigarettes, but they should make quitting vaping products their next step.