Nicotine dependence is complex.

Quitting cold turkey is recommended, but understandably difficult.

We recommend discussing with your regular GP regarding first-line pharmacotherapies for smoking cessation, in combination with behavioural modifications.

If your GP is unable to help for any reason, we are happy to assist in your smoking cessation journey.

We highly recommend behavioural intervention with Quitline, and will help send a referral for you with your consent.

Approved NRT like patches, gums, sprays, inhalators and lozenges are available widely through pharmacies and supermarkets.

You do not need a prescription to purchase these approved therapies, however we may prescribe it if necessary to assist with your quitting journey.

According to the TGA website: On 21 December 2020, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced a decision that from 1 October 2021, consumers will need a valid prescription to import nicotine vaping products, such as nicotine e-cigarettes, nicotine pods and liquid nicotine. From 1 March 2024, personal importation of vaping goods and accessories is no longer legal without an import license and permit.

This ensures that only quality products that meet TGA standards are sold/dispensed, as there have been reports of lung injury from low quality e-liquids that have harmful additives. This means that it will be illegal for smoke shops to sell products for nicotine vaping, and patients can only access this via an Australian pharmacy.

​Visit the TGA website for further information: https://www.tga.gov.au/products/unapproved-therapeutic-goods/vaping-hub

According to TGA Vaping Hub,

"Vaping devices that do not contain, and are not packaged with, a vaping substance do not need to be prescribed or authorised for supply under the AP, SAS B or SAS C schemes.

However, a pharmacist can only supply a vaping device if satisfied it will be for use for smoking cessation or the management of nicotine dependence.

Unless the device is being supplied with a prescribed or authorised vaping substance, a pharmacist will need to discuss the intended use with the patient before dispensing. Only vaping devices and zero-nicotine vapes included in the TGA's list of notified vapes can be dispensed."

From 1 July 2024, all vaping goods including hardware and accessories need to be supplied through pharmacies.

However, most pharmacies will not be supplying various brands of hardware and accessories.

There are select devices/hardware that may be available through pharmacies and will be discussed in the consultation.

From 1 March 2024, Personal Importation has ceased. This means it is no longer legal for individuals to buy and import any vaping goods (liquids, devices and hardware/accessories) from overseas.

From 1 July 2024, all vaping goods can only be supplied to consumers through pharmacies. Tobacconists and convenience stores can no longer stock any vaping goods (even nicotine free).

Nicotine-containing vapes and zero-nicotine vapes are only available on prescription.

A prescription is not required for devices and hardware, but can only be supplied at the pharmacy. Most will only supply a very limited range and supply. This can be discussed at the assessment consultation.

You can find more information at the TGA Vaping Hub.