How to Quit Menthol Cigarettes

Thinking about quitting smoking menthols? Join millions of other people quitting smoking, vaping, and other tobacco and nicotine products for free with EX Program.

What is Menthol, and Why is it Harder to Quit Menthol Cigarettes Than Non-Menthol?

Menthol is a flavor that is added to cigarettes. It makes smoking feel "smoother" - kind of like sucking on a menthol cough drop while you're smoking. That cooling feeling makes it easier to inhale more deeply. And deep inhales give you a bigger dose of nicotine. Over time, more nicotine receptors develop in your brain which makes it harder to quit.

What Works to Help Quit Smoking?

Ever wonder why quitting smoking can feel so hard? You're not alone. Nicotine addiction causes real changes in the brain, and it oftens takes people many tries to quit successfully. The good news is that quitting is possible! A combination of three things is proven to be effective to help people quit nicotine. And, research shows using EX Program’s science-backed approach can increase your odds of quitting by up to 40%.

  • New skills

    To quit smoking, you need to break behavior patterns and a physical addiction. EX Program helps you identify triggers, cope with cravings, and replace old routines with new, healthier ones. It may not be easy, but we have the advice of experts and experienced quitters to guide you with online tools and daily text messages.

  • Support from others

    Support is proven to help you quit, whether it’s from a trusted friend, a family member, or a group of other quitters. In the EX Community, you’ll get free, 24/7, anonymous support in the EX Community from other people who get what you’re going through. They’ll answer your questions about quitting, cheer you on, and support you through tough moments.

  • FDA-approved medication

    When used with behavior change and support, Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medication, like nicotine gum, lozenges, and patches, can double your chances of quitting, and can make quitting more comfortable. With EX Program, you’ll learn about your options to make the best choice for you. Plus, EX Program members 18+ can get an exclusive 25% off discount on nicotine gum and lozenges from our partners at Blip.

EX Program by Truth Initiative is developed with Mayo Clinic

Since 2008, EX Program by Truth Initiative has collaborated with the Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center. Together, we bring you proven, evidence-based quitting approaches and the most established online quit community.

How EX Program Helps You Quit Smoking

Access to expert advice and tips

You’ll get a full collection of our best, judgment-free advice from the professionals at EX Program, Mayo Clinic and other quitters. Plus, our live events make it easy to meet experts and get answers to your quitting questions.

Connect with other quitters in the EX Community

The EX Community is the longest-running and largest online community for people quitting smoking, vaping, nicotine pouches, and tobacco. Find support, get accountability, and celebrate your wins with people who get what you’re going through.

Daily reminders to help guide you on your journey

You'll get text messages with advice from experts and quitters in all phases of their quit journey. Messages adapt to your needs and experiences, whether you’re curious about quitting, actively trying to quit right now, or wanting to maintain the progress you’ve already made.

Online exercises and tools

Interactive tools help you unlock your reasons for quitting, identify triggers, learn new ways to manage nicotine cravings, and more.

Progress tracking

Progress tracking for personal accountability can help keep you on track with your goals.

Personalized recommendations

EX Scout finds 6 ideas for you to read and do every week, tailored to you and your unique quit journey.

Get An Exclusive 25% off Nicotine Gum, Lozenges and More from Blip

We’ve teamed up with Blip to bring eligible EX Program members 18+ a discount on products designed to help you quit! Blip offers FDA-approved nicotine gum and lozenges, plus flavored nicotine-free toothpicks and quit kits.

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  • Millions of people have used EX Program on their quitting journey.

    96% of EX Program members find it helpful!

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Reviewed by Amanda Graham, PhD

Chief Health Officer, Truth Initiative

Updated December 19, 2025