If you’re ready to quit smoking, it’s helpful to understand how medications can increase your chances of success. Quit attempts using medications tend to have better outcomes than those done “cold turkey,” or without medication.
Products that help you quit smoking include short-acting nicotine-replacement medications like gum, lozenges, inhalers, and nasal sprays, and long-acting medications like varenicline (Chantix®), bupropion (Zyban®), and nicotine patches. Research suggests that combining a long-acting medication that you take on a regular schedule with a short-acting medication to help with cravings, as needed, may increase the likelihood of quitting.1
If you need help quitting, ask your doctor if using medication to help may be a good next step for you.
The smoking-cessation products listed below are covered under your US Family Health Plan pharmacy benefit at a $0 copay with the following terms/conditions:
Note: Coverage does not apply at retail pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens, even for OTC items, unless ordered through our mail-order service.
State Quit Lines – connect with free coaching and personalized quit plans in your state:
American Lung Association's Freedom from Smoking® Program: Offers group clinics to help you overcome tobacco addiction. Learn more
American Heart Association: Provides resources and support for quitting smoking. Visit their website
For additional information or assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Member Services.
1. Department of Health and Human Services. Smoking Cessation: A Report of the Surgeon General. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; 2020.
“988” is the three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress.
Pressing “1” after dialing 988 will connect you directly to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline which serves our nation’s Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. You can also text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline at 838255.
Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the United States 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—free and confidential.
A live, trained volunteer Crisis Counselor will receive the text and respond from a secure online platform. “The volunteer Crisis Counselor will help you move from a hot moment to a cool calm.”