Protocol · Addiction & Recovery
Smoking Cessation Support Protocol
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) and Vitamin C are the core of this stack, with 7 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Smoking Cessation Support.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
9 supplements · none graded yet
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) | Amount listed: 1,200–2,400 mg daily in divided doses | Modulates glutamate and may reduce cravings and addictive behaviors | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 500–2,000 mg daily | Depleted by smoking; may help reduce nicotine cravings and support detoxification | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Amount listed: 2–3 g EPA+DHA daily | May reduce cigarette craving and support brain health during recovery | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin D | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily | Often deficient in smokers; deficiency linked to depression and may affect quit success | Not graded yet | |
| Magnesium | Amount listed: 300–400 mg daily | Supports nervous system function; may help with withdrawal anxiety | Not graded yet | |
| L-Tyrosine | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg daily | Dopamine precursor; may help with low mood and concentration during withdrawal | Not graded yet | |
| B-Complex Vitamins | Amount listed: B-complex with at least 100% DV daily | Smoking depletes B vitamins; supports nervous system and energy during cessation | Not graded yet | |
| GABA | Amount listed: 250–750 mg daily | Inhibitory neurotransmitter; may help reduce anxiety during withdrawal | Not graded yet | |
| Rhodiola Rosea | Amount listed: 200–400 mg standardized extract daily | Adaptogen that may help with stress and fatigue during cessation | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, but nicotine addiction makes it extremely challenging. Nicotine affects multiple neurotransmitter systems (dopamine, glutamate, GABA, acetylcholine), and withdrawal causes irritability, anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, increased appetite, and intense cravings. On average, it takes 8-11 attempts to successfully quit. Comprehensive approaches work best.
CRITICAL: Evidence-based smoking cessation treatments significantly improve quit rates. First-line options include: nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum, lozenges), varenicline (Chantix), and bupropion (Wellbutrin). Combination therapy (e.g., patch + gum) works better than single agents. Behavioral support (quitlines, counseling) combined with medication doubles success rates. These supplements may provide adjunctive support but are NOT replacements for proven pharmacological treatments. Consult your healthcare provider for the most effective cessation strategy.
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)* modulates the glutamate system, which is involved in addiction. It has shown promise for various substance use disorders and may reduce cravings.
Vitamin C* is depleted by smoking (smokers need 35mg/day more than non-smokers). Some studies suggest vitamin C may reduce nicotine cravings and help with cessation.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids* may reduce cigarette cravings and support brain health during the recovery period.
Vitamin D* deficiency is common in smokers and may affect mood and cessation success.
Magnesium* may help with withdrawal-related anxiety.
L-Tyrosine* is a dopamine precursor that may support mood and concentration when nicotine's dopamine effects are withdrawn.
B Vitamins* are depleted by smoking and support nervous system function and energy.
Rhodiola* is an adaptogen that may help with stress and fatigue.
Expected timeline: Nicotine withdrawal peaks in the first week and improves over 2-4 weeks. Psychological cravings can persist for months. Supplements support the process but quit success depends on comprehensive treatment and behavioral change.