Quit Smoking Helpline in Italy

Frequently asked questions

Is there a free quit-smoking helpline in Italy?

Yes. The Telefono Verde contro il Fumo on 800 554 088 is a free, anonymous national helpline run by the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS). Counsellors can help you plan a quit attempt, manage cravings, and find a Centro Antifumo near you.

Source: ISS — Telefono Verde contro il Fumo , Ministero della Salute — Telefono Verde Fumo

Is help to quit smoking free in Italy?

Yes. Calls to 800 554 088 are free. The behavioural support offered by Centri Antifumo, run by local ASL authorities under the Servizio Sanitario Nazionale (SSN), is also generally free. Medications are handled separately: nicotine replacement therapy is sold over the counter and usually self-paid.

Source: ISS — Telefono Verde contro il Fumo , ISS — Centri Antifumo

When can I call the Telefono Verde contro il Fumo?

The Telefono Verde (800 554 088) is staffed Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 16:00. Outside those hours, online self-help and the directory of Centri Antifumo remain available on the ISS smettodifumare.iss.it portal.

Source: ISS — Telefono Verde contro il Fumo , ISS — smettodifumare.iss.it

What languages does the Telefono Verde support?

The Telefono Verde operates primarily in Italian. Non-Italian speakers are usually best served through their general practitioner (medico di medicina generale) or a local ASL Centro Antifumo, which can sometimes arrange interpretation or refer to a multilingual service.

Source: ISS — Telefono Verde contro il Fumo , ISS — Centri Antifumo

Does Italy’s health system cover quit-smoking medication?

Coverage varies by drug. Cytisine (citisina) is reimbursed by the SSN when prescribed through a Centro Antifumo as part of behavioural treatment. Varenicline (vareniclina) is available with limited reimbursement for specific medical conditions. Bupropion is no longer marketed in Italy specifically for smoking cessation. Nicotine replacement therapy is sold over the counter and normally self-paid.

Source: ISS — Centri Antifumo , ISS — smettodifumare.iss.it