NHS England Introduces Varenicline to Combat Smoking
A New Effort to Reduce Smoking-Related Deaths
NHS England will offer varenicline, a once-a-day pill, to approximately 85,000 smokers annually to aid them in quitting smoking.
This initiative aims to save thousands of lives by reducing nicotine cravings and minimizing withdrawal side effects.
Varenicline, previously known under the brand Champix, was used by around 85,800 people per year until 2021 but was temporarily halted due to impurities.
Now reinstated as a generic drug approved by the MHRA, it promises substantial healthcare savings.
Amanda Pritchard, NHS England's CEO, considers the pill a 'gamechanger' in reducing smoking, which currently affects 11.6% of adults in England.
The NHS hopes to prevent 9,500 smoking-related deaths over the next five years, relying on varenicline's effectiveness alongside counseling support.
Experts like Dr. Nicola Lindson of Oxford University praise its efficacy, while Action on Smoking and Health calls for further quitting support.
The drug is supplied by Teva UK.
This initiative aims to save thousands of lives by reducing nicotine cravings and minimizing withdrawal side effects.
Varenicline, previously known under the brand Champix, was used by around 85,800 people per year until 2021 but was temporarily halted due to impurities.
Now reinstated as a generic drug approved by the MHRA, it promises substantial healthcare savings.
Amanda Pritchard, NHS England's CEO, considers the pill a 'gamechanger' in reducing smoking, which currently affects 11.6% of adults in England.
The NHS hopes to prevent 9,500 smoking-related deaths over the next five years, relying on varenicline's effectiveness alongside counseling support.
Experts like Dr. Nicola Lindson of Oxford University praise its efficacy, while Action on Smoking and Health calls for further quitting support.
The drug is supplied by Teva UK.
