When is it generally advised to stop treatment for tobacco use disorder?

The recommendation to stop treatment for tobacco use disorder when the patient feels ready to stop aligns with a patient-centered approach and acknowledges the chronic nature of addiction. Tobacco use disorder treatment often includes behavioral interventions and pharmacotherapy, with the goal of supporting individuals through their quitting journey.

Readiness to stop is a critical factor in successful cessation. If patients feel ready and committed to quitting, they are more likely to engage positively with their treatment plan and sustain long-term abstinence. This approach also respects the autonomy of the patient, encouraging them to take an active role in their recovery process.

In contrast, arbitrary timelines for discontinuation, such as 6 weeks, 12 weeks, or 24 weeks, do not consider the individual circumstances and needs of the patient. Stopping treatment before the patient expresses readiness could lead to relapse and discourage necessary engagement with ongoing support and resources. Therefore, aligning treatment discontinuation with the patient's own sense of readiness is a more effective and compassionate approach for managing tobacco use disorder.