Health authorities recommend professional support and nicotine substitutes for smoking cessation

Health authorities emphasize that the most effective method for quitting smoking combines professional support with nicotine substitutes. According to the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS), nicotine substitutes such as patches, gums, and sprays are recommended as a first-line treatment depending on the level of dependency.

For second-line treatment, prescription medications like varenicline and bupropion may be used. Data from Santé publique France indicates that 97% of smokers fail to quit without professional accompaniment. Professional support, including cognitive behavioral therapies and motivational interviewing, significantly increases the probability of success compared to minimal advice.

In France, most nicotine substitutes are 65% reimbursed with a prescription, and there is no annual cap on coverage. While electronic cigarettes are widely used as a tool to transition away from traditional tobacco, they are not classified as health products and are not covered by health insurance.