FAQS

Information provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. Nicotine vaping products are not approved as first-line smoking cessation therapies in Australia.

Smoking Cessation Support

Help Me Stop provides access to smoking cessation support options in accordance with Australian regulations.

These may include behavioural support, nicotine replacement therapy products such as patches and gum, and prescription options where clinically appropriate and prescribed by an Australian-registered medical practitioner.

Any prescription products are supplied through authorised Australian pharmacies and must comply with applicable regulatory and quality standards.

There are several evidence-based approaches available to support smoking cessation. The most appropriate option depends on individual factors such as smoking history, nicotine dependence, personal preferences, and medical considerations.

Support options may include behavioural strategies, nicotine replacement therapy, and prescription options where clinically appropriate following assessment by a healthcare professional.

You can learn more in our educational guide: “How to Quit Smoking”.

Nicotine Vaping Products - Legal & Regulatory Information

Yes. In Australia, nicotine vaping products are regulated as prescription-only therapeutic goods They may only be prescribed by an Australian-registered medical practitioner following an individual clinical assessment.

If prescribed, supply must occur through an authorised Australian pharmacy in accordance with federal and state regulations.

In Australia, nicotine vaping products may only be supplied following:

  • assessment by an Australian-registered medical practitioner
  • issuance of a valid prescription where clinically appropriate
  • dispensing by an authorised Australian pharmacy

Supply must comply with current Australian regulatory requirements, including pharmacy dispensing and quality standards.

Nicotine vaping products supplied via prescription in Australia must comply with Therapeutic Goods Order 110 (TGO 110).

This standard sets requirements for:

  • ingredients
  • nicotine concentration
  • labelling
  • packaging
  • contamination limits

Products supplied outside Australian regulatory pathways may not comply with Australian quality and safety standards. Importation of nicotine vaping products from overseas is no longer permitted under current Australian regulations.

Nicotine vaping products may only be lawfully supplied following prescription by an Australian-registered medical practitioner and dispensing through an authorised Australian pharmacy.

Unauthorised supply or importation is prohibited under Australian law. Penalties for unlawful supply or importation may apply and vary by state and territory. Regulation and enforcement occur at both federal and state levels.

To comply with Australian law, nicotine vaping products should only be accessed following clinical assessment and supplied through authorised Australian pharmacies.

Safety & Health Information

Current evidence regarding the safety and effectiveness of nicotine vaping products is still evolving. Vaping products differ from combustible tobacco products in how they deliver nicotine, however they may expose users to other potentially harmful substances. The long-term health effects are not yet fully understood.

In Australia, nicotine vaping products supplied via prescription must comply with Therapeutic Goods Order 110 (TGO 110), which sets quality and safety requirements.

Individuals should consult a healthcare professional for advice on smoking cessation options.

Individual responses to nicotine vaping products may vary.

Reported side effects may include:

  • coughing
  • mouth or throat irritation
  • headaches
  • nausea

Other reported effects may include:

  • dizziness
  • fatigue
  • shortness of breath
  • heart palpitations
  • anxiety or irritability

Individuals experiencing side effects should consult a healthcare professional.

Using both tobacco cigarettes and nicotine vaping products is commonly referred to as dual use. Continued use of tobacco cigarettes is associated with significant health risks.

Individuals considering smoking cessation options should consult a healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is an evidence-based smoking cessation support option that provides controlled amounts of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke. It may help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while individuals work towards stopping nicotine use entirely.

NRT products are available without a prescription from pharmacies and other approved retail outlets in Australia.

Common forms of nicotine replacement therapy include:

  • nicotine patches
  • nicotine gum
  • nicotine lozenges
  • nicotine mouth sprays
  • nicotine inhalators

Different products deliver nicotine at different rates, and a healthcare professional can help determine the most appropriate option.

Nicotine patches are applied to the skin and release small amounts of nicotine gradually into the bloodstream. This helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings throughout the day.

Nicotine patches do not contain tobacco and deliver lower, controlled levels of nicotine compared to cigarettes.

Nicotine gum releases nicotine that is absorbed through the lining of the mouth. It may help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms when used as directed.

Nicotine gum provides a controlled dose of nicotine without exposure to tobacco smoke.

The duration of nicotine replacement therapy varies depending on individual needs and smoking history. Many individuals use NRT for several weeks to months as part of a structured smoking cessation plan.

A healthcare professional can provide guidance on appropriate duration and product selection.

Some individuals may use more than one form of nicotine replacement therapy as part of a smoking cessation plan. This approach may help manage both ongoing withdrawal symptoms and sudden cravings.

The most appropriate approach should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Nicotine replacement therapy may help reduce withdrawal symptoms such as:

  • irritability
  • anxiety
  • restlessness
  • difficulty concentrating

Side effects are generally mild and vary between individuals. Individuals should consult a healthcare professional if they experience unexpected symptoms.