Studies have shown that methods that can increase long-term quit rates include: smoking cessation persuasion, smoking cessation counseling, quitlines, and smoking cessation medication. Smoking poses serious health risks, and quitting has been shown to be the only way to reduce the harms of smoking. Smokers who quit can experience significant benefits, but those with high levels of tobacco dependence often require intense cessation interventions to quit successfully. Research has demonstrated that cessation persuasion, cessation counseling, quitlines, and cessation medication are effective in increasing long-term quit rates. Commonly used first-line cessation medications include nicotine replacement preparations and varenicline. Many major hospitals also have smoking cessation clinics to help tobacco-dependent persons undergo intensive treatment. If needed, visit a hospital’s smoking cessation clinic. Follow your doctor’s instructions for the above medications.