From the Guidelines
Hypnotherapy should not be considered a primary treatment for smoking cessation, but rather as a complementary approach to evidence-based treatments such as pharmacotherapy and behavioral therapy. According to the most recent and highest quality study 1, combining pharmacologic therapy and behavior therapy is the most effective approach and leads to the best results for smoking cessation. The two most effective pharmacotherapy agents are combination nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and varenicline. High-intensity behavior therapy with multiple counseling sessions is most effective, but at least a minimum of brief counseling is highly recommended.
Some key points to consider when developing a comprehensive quit plan include:
- Combining pharmacologic therapy and behavior therapy for the best results
- Using combination nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and varenicline as the most effective pharmacotherapy agents
- Incorporating high-intensity behavior therapy with multiple counseling sessions
- Documenting smoking status in the patient health record and updating it at regular intervals
- Providing guidance and support to encourage continued smoking cessation attempts in the event of relapse or brief slips
While hypnotherapy may be a useful complementary approach, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based treatments that have been proven to be effective in reducing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life. As stated in the study 1, pharmacotherapy is most effective when combined with behavior therapy, and motivational counseling is beneficial for all patients, including those unwilling to quit.
In terms of specific treatment recommendations, the study 1 suggests that smoking cessation should be offered as part of oncology treatment and continued throughout the entire oncology care continuum, including during end-of-life care. An emphasis should be put on patient preferences and values when considering the best approach to fostering smoking cessation during end-of-life care.
Overall, while hypnotherapy may have some benefits as a complementary approach, it is crucial to prioritize evidence-based treatments that have been proven to be effective in reducing morbidity, mortality, and improving quality of life. The most effective approach to smoking cessation is a comprehensive quit plan that combines pharmacologic therapy and behavior therapy, with a focus on patient preferences and values.
From the Research
Hypnotherapy for Smoking Cessation
- Hypnotherapy is widely promoted as a method for aiding smoking cessation, intended to act on underlying impulses to weaken the desire to smoke or strengthen the will to stop 2, 3.
- Studies have shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of hypnotherapy for smoking cessation, with some studies finding no significant difference in quit rates compared to other interventions or no treatment 2, 3.
- A 2014 study found that hypnotherapy was more effective than nicotine replacement therapy for smoking cessation, with hypnotherapy patients being more likely to be nonsmokers at 12 and 26 weeks post-hospitalization 4.
- A 2025 systematic review found that 66.7% of included studies reported a positive impact of hypnotherapy on smoking cessation, with positive impact studies having longer average treatment duration and greater number of hypnotherapy sessions 5.
- While hypnotherapy may be a useful approach for smoking cessation, more studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and potential side effects 2, 5.
Comparison to Other Interventions
- Hypnotherapy has been compared to various other interventions for smoking cessation, including nicotine replacement therapy, counseling, and pharmacotherapies such as varenicline and bupropion 2, 3, 4, 6.
- A 2024 study found that varenicline was more effective than bupropion in maintaining abstinence and reducing craving, although both medications can result in adverse effects such as nausea and insomnia 6.
- Hypnotherapy may be considered as an alternative or adjunct to other interventions for smoking cessation, particularly for those who have tried other methods without success or who prefer a non-pharmacological approach 4, 5.
Limitations and Future Directions
- Many studies on hypnotherapy for smoking cessation have methodological limitations, including small sample sizes and high risk of bias 2, 3.
- Further large, high-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of hypnotherapy for smoking cessation 2, 5.
- Additional research is also needed to assess treatment fidelity and hypnotizability, as well as to provide information on race/ethnicity and report on side effects and adverse events 5.