The University of Texas at Austin supports its students, faculty and staff who want to quit using tobacco products by offering resources.
The Counseling and Mental Health Center (CMHC) offers counseling with a Substance Use Support Team member for students wishing to quit or lower their tobacco use. Students may call the Counseling and Mental Health Center at 512-471-3515 for more information.
Students may make an appointment with a UHS medical provider if they are interested in discussing the use of prescription medication to assist in quitting tobacco by calling 512-471-4955.
Apps and Online Quit Programs
These resources offer helpful tips, information, social support, diversions from cravings and reinforcement to support anyone wishing to quit or lower their tobacco use.
Apps and Programs
Web Based
App
Text / Phone
Become an Ex The EX plan provides a free customized quit plan. It is based on scientific research and practical advice from ex-smokers.
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Smokefree.gov The National Cancer Institute (NCI) created Smokefree.gov to help you or someone you care about quit smoking. Smokefree.gov offers smartphone apps and texting plans, as well as resources specific to individuals with a variety identities.
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Freedom from Smoking® Online Program A program from the American Lung Association that includes a comprehensive variety of evidence-based, proven-effective cessation techniques.
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Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
As part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program, the American Heart Association recommends NRT as an effective tool to help quit smoking. NRT reduces feelings of withdrawal by giving smaller, controlled amounts of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarette smoke. This satisfies the craving for nicotine but reduces the urge to smoke. Below are a few options:
NRT Type
Description
How to Access
Gum or Lozenges
A type of chewing gum or lozenge that delivers nicotine to the bloodstream through tissues in the mouth.
Over the Counter
Patch
A patch that releases nicotine through the skin.
Over the Counter
Inhaler
A thin, plastic tube. By puffing on it, a person extracts and absorbs nicotine vapor through the lining of their throat and mouth.
Prescription
Nasal Spray
An aerosol nicotine spray that delivers nicotine to the person through their nostrils. The nicotine is absorbed by the nasal membranes inside the nose.
Prescription
Prescription Medications
There are also non-addictive prescription medications such as bupropion (Wellbutrin®, Zyban®) and Varenicline (Chantix®). Using NRTs or prescription medications like these doubles the odds of successful quitting. A combination of these methods increases success rates even more.
