Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, but it still carries health risks. For many people trying to quit, breaking the habit can be just as difficult as quitting cigarettes. As 2025 begins, many are looking for ways to improve their health, with quitting vaping being one of the top resolutions. If you’re looking to kick the habit for good, new research provides key insights into the most effective methods to quit vaping.
Research Finds Best Way to Quit Vaping
A recent study, co-led by Jamie Hartmann-Boyce from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, identified the best strategies for quitting vaping. The study, published on January 7 in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, reveals that there are effective ways to help individuals give up vaping without relapsing. With the UK set to ban disposable vapes and implement taxes on refillable ones, now is the perfect time to focus on quitting.
“This area of research is still developing,” says Hartmann-Boyce, “but it is growing rapidly as more people seek help to quit vaping. Additionally, many who use vaping to quit smoking want to know how to transition safely away from both smoking and vaping.”
The Most Effective Methods to Quit Vaping
The study’s findings suggest that a specific prescription medication, varenicline, also known as Champix, could be one of the best ways to quit vaping for individuals who are serious about breaking the habit. Varenicline, which has been used for years to help people stop smoking, may also be effective for those looking to quit vaping.
Along with varenicline, the research points to text message-based interventions as a promising approach, especially for younger people who began vaping during their adolescent years. Text messages offering regular support and encouragement can be highly beneficial for those aged 13 to 24.
The study, which analyzed nine randomized trials involving over 5,000 participants, evaluated the effectiveness of different quitting strategies. “The methods we tested are similar to those that have proven successful in smoking cessation programs,” explains Hartmann-Boyce. However, further research is necessary to confirm their effectiveness in helping people quit vaping.
Support Programs for Quitting Vaping
Text message support programs have shown positive results in helping younger people quit vaping, while varenicline appears effective for adults trying to quit. However, the researchers caution that the current evidence is still of low certainty, and more trials are needed to determine the long-term effectiveness of these methods.
Healthcare professionals now have initial evidence to recommend specific approaches, particularly for younger individuals. “We urgently need more research to explore these and other approaches to help people quit vaping,” says Ailsa Butler, a co-author of the study.
Varenicline: A Promising Option for Quitting Vaping
In November 2024, the NHS rolled out varenicline as a smoking cessation aid, showing that it works as effectively as vapes and better than nicotine-replacement therapies like gum or patches. The daily pill works by blocking the cravings in the brain, making it a more effective option for smokers who want to quit. The NHS plans to offer varenicline to tens of thousands of smokers each year, providing another tool to help them quit.
While it remains to be seen if varenicline will be approved for those addicted to vaping, the drug’s success in helping smokers quit offers hope for those looking to break free from nicotine dependence.
Conclusion: Effective Strategies to Quit Vaping in 2025
Quitting vaping can be challenging, but recent research highlights effective strategies, including varenicline and text-based support programs. Whether you’re a teenager who started vaping or an adult looking to quit, these methods offer hope for a healthier 2025. With ongoing research and support, quitting vaping has never been more achievable.
