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1-800-QUIT-NOW

Why should I call 1-800-Quit-Now?

Nicotine is a powerful and addictive drug.  Some people can quit cold turkey, but most people benefit from some type of support in their quit efforts.  The Pennsylvania Free Quitline offers up to 5 proactive coaching sessions, unlimited inbound calls, and customized quit plans to each participant.  Coaches are available 7 days a week and telephone calls can be scheduled for when it is most convenient for you.  The Quitline will mail you an information packet after you call.

Read more about the effectiveness of tobacco telephone quitlines here.

What is a coaching session?

Quitline coaches are specially trained to help you determine how and when it will be best for you to quit smoking.  Coaches can help you:

  • set a quit date
  • discuss strategies for handling cravings and triggers
  • help prepare you for difficult situation
  • help you limit weight gain while quitting
  • review the approved quit smoking medicine and how to use medicines correctly
  • provide you with support and encouragement
  • help in the event of a slip or relapse

How do I contact the Quitline?

The Quitline is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669)

Most quitlines can arrange for a translator if you or someone you know who wants to quit speaks a different language. Additionally, there are quitlines available for people who speak Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, and Vietnamese:

Spanish:
1-855-335-3569

Asian Languages:
Mandarin & Cantonese: 1-800-838-8917
Korean: 1-800-556-5564
Vietnamese: 1-800-778-8440

Five Reasons Why Calling a Quitline can be Key to your Success

Read full article from cdc.gov here

  1. You can get help to stop smoking – free, with no judgment.
  2. Quit coaches help create a plan that can work for you.
  3. You can get helpful tips on dealing with cravings, when to use medication and more.
  4. Quit coaches can help you get quit-smoking medications.
  5. Quitlines increase your chances of quitting and staying quit!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get the Free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)?

Once you have enrolled with the Quitline and completed the first coaching session, the Quitline will mail the NRT straight to your home.  Your coach will discuss and help you decide which medicine would be appropriate for you.  If you have a health condition that may require a doctor’s approval for medication the Quitline will help you with the appropriate paperwork.  The nicotine patches, gum, and lozenges are over-the-counter drugs that you could purchase yourself at any drugstore, but the Quitline offers some medication for free. If you think you may need a prescription medication (bupropian, varenicline) the coach will advise on questions you can ask your doctor.

How often can I call the Quitline?

You may call the free 1-800-QUIT-NOW number and speak to a coach as many times as you need.  Once enrolled in the program a coach will call you up to 5 times (once a week for five weeks) at a time you choose.  If after the 5 calls, you and the coach determine you need more support you may choose to re-enroll.

Can I use the Quitline if I am under 18 years old?

Yes.  You must be at least 14 years old to enroll in the Quitline program.  You must be 18 years old to receive the NRT.

I’m pregnant.  Can I still call the Quitline?

Yes.  Women who are pregnant can call and enroll in the quitline for services.  You will get up to 8 calls, scheduled for your convenience; with 5 calls before you have the baby and 3 more calls post-partum.  You will also get a dedicated quit coach assigned to you.  The use of NRT will have to be determined with your doctor.

I’ve tried the Quitline before but did not quit smoking.  Can I call again?

Yes.  We know it can take people several tries to quit for good.  Please call the Quitline if you are ready to try again.  Please note: the free supply of NRT is only available once per year per person.

I don’t smoke but I chew.  Can I use the Quitline?

Yes.  Quitting spit tobacco is just as difficult as quitting smoking.  Coaches are trained to help people quit chewing tobacco.

I’d prefer to use texting instead of calling.  Is that possible?

You can sign up for text message that will offer support and motivation.  This is a supplement to the calls and conversations from the quit coach.  You can call and discuss your situation with a coach.

I’m thinking about quitting, but am not reading for coaching.  Should I call the Quitline?

Yes.  The Quitline is able to help people in any stage of quitting.  If you determine you are not ready for coaching calls the Quitline will mail you a packet of information.


The Pennsylvania Free Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) is funded by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.