Quit Smoking Helpline in Denmark

Frequently asked questions

How can I get free help to quit smoking in Denmark?

Several free options exist. You can use the digital eKvit programme, talk to your own GP (egen læge), or sign up for a free stop-smoking course run by your municipality (kommune). Pharmacies also give advice and sell nicotine-replacement products. Sundhedsstyrelsen notes that combining professional counselling with medication gives the strongest chance of staying smoke-free.

Source: Sundhedsstyrelsen — Hjælp til rygestop , Borger.dk — Rygestop

What is eKvit and is it free?

eKvit is a free digital quit programme that helps you stop using tobacco and nicotine. It works online and through an app, sending daily support, tips and milestones while tracking your smoke-free time, the money you save and your improving health. It covers cigarettes, snus, e-cigarettes and other nicotine products, and is free to use.

Source: eKvit — gratis digital rygestophjælp

Can my GP and municipality (kommune) help, and are stop-smoking courses free?

Yes. Your own GP (egen læge) can advise you and write prescriptions for quit-smoking medication. Most Danish municipalities run free stop-smoking courses (rygestopforløb), offered individually or in groups and led by trained advisers. A typical course involves several sessions over at least a month after your quit date, which is more effective than going it alone.

Source: Sundhedsstyrelsen — Hjælp til rygestop , Borger.dk — Rygestop

Is nicotine-replacement therapy or medication subsidised in Denmark?

Nicotine-replacement products such as gum, patches and lozenges are sold over the counter at pharmacies and are usually paid for by the user, while prescription medication is obtained through your GP. Free or subsidised medication is available mainly for socially or economically disadvantaged groups, and only when they take part in a municipal stop-smoking course at the same time.

Source: Sundhedsstyrelsen — Medicin til nikotinafvænning , Sundhedsstyrelsen — Hjælp til rygestop

In what language is help offered, and can I get support online?

Help in Denmark is provided in Danish. The free eKvit programme works online and as an app, so you can get support at any time without an appointment. GP consultations and municipal courses are in-person services in your local area, while pharmacies offer face-to-face advice alongside the products they sell.

Source: eKvit — gratis digital rygestophjælp , Borger.dk — Rygestop