The role of the pharmacist increasingly includes providing counselling and support for people struggling with addiction. When quitting smoking, personal motivation and willingness to change are essential, but success rates are significantly higher when professional support is included in the process. International experience shows that pharmacies are often among the most effective providers of smoking cessation counselling due to their accessibility and the high level of trust they hold within communities.

One clear advantage of pharmacies is that counselling and over-the-counter medicines can be accessed during the same visit. If it becomes evident during counselling that prescription medication is needed, the pharmacist can refer the patient to a doctor. In addition, smoking cessation may be accompanied by temporary side effects such as insomnia, constipation, or weight gain — all of which the pharmacist can help address.

More information on quitting tobacco and nicotine is available at tubakainfo.ee.