‘Game-Changer’ Stop Smoking Pill to Be Rolled Out on NHS – New Tool for Smokers | Impartial Reporter

‘Game-Changer’ Stop Smoking Pill to Be Rolled Out on NHS – New Tool for Smokers | Impartial Reporter

November 12, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Health

How Varenicline Helps People Quit Smoking

Effective and Safe

Varenicline, also known as Champix, is a prescription medicine approved by the FDA to help people quit smoking. It is shown to be safe and effective for adults who smoke cigarettes[1].

How it Works

Varenicline reduces cravings for nicotine and blocks the brain’s nicotine receptors, making cigarettes less enjoyable. It does not contain nicotine itself, unlike other quit-smoking medications like nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)[1][4].

Usage Instructions

  1. Prescription Required: You need to get a prescription from a healthcare provider for varenicline.
  2. Daily Dosage: Take the pill twice a day. The dosage typically starts with one 0.5 mg pill per day for the first three days, increasing to two pills (0.5 mg each) per day for four to seven days, then continuing with two 1 mg pills per day until the end of treatment[1].
  3. Start Taking Before Quit Date: You can choose either of two options:
    • Option 1: Set a quit date and start taking varenicline one week before. Continue smoking until your quit date.
    • Option 2: Start taking varenicline before choosing your exact quit date. Pick a quit date 8 to 35 days after starting the medication[1].

Benefits and Side Effects

  • Benefits:
    • More than one in four people can stop smoking for at least six months when using varenicline alongside behavioral support[2].
    • It may be more effective than other quit-smoking medications like nicotine patches or gum, especially for those who have tried other methods unsuccessfully[1].
  • Side Effects:
    • Common side effects include nausea, insomnia, vivid dreams, dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, headaches, and drowsiness. If you experience any problems, talk to your doctor[4].

NHS Rollout

As of November 2024, the NHS in England is rolling out varenicline to help tens of thousands of smokers quit. This move aims to save lives and millions of pounds for the healthcare system. When used with behavioral support, varenicline can help reduce smoking-related health issues significantly[2][3].

If you’re trying to quit smoking, speaking to your doctor or an NHS stop smoking service is a good first step. They can help you determine if varenicline is the right medication for you and provide additional support and guidance throughout your quit journey.