Around £2.5 billion is spent each year by the NHS on treating health issues caused by smoking, a leading contributor to preventable illnesses and deaths. In a significant development, a new “game-changer” pill is set to be made available to tens of thousands of smokers across England who are striving to quit.
Varenicline, the daily pill, has shown promise in helping smokers quit by effectively reducing cravings and lessening the pleasure derived from nicotine, according to NHS England. It has been found to be more effective than traditional nicotine-replacement therapies like gum or patches and is on par with vapes in supporting smoking cessation efforts.
The treatment not only curbs cravings but also alleviates common withdrawal symptoms, such as irritability and sleep disturbances, making it easier for smokers to transition away from nicotine dependency. Patients typically undergo a 12-week course of treatment, which has shown impressive outcomes in supporting long-term quitting.
Research from University College London (UCL) estimates that this pill could assist over 85,000 people annually and potentially prevent up to 9,500 smoking-related deaths over the next five years. Varenicline will soon become another option offered by NHS stop-smoking services across England, providing more effective support to those determined to kick the habit.
Previously, a branded version of varenicline, marketed as Champix, was prescribed but later withdrawn by Pfizer in 2021 after impurities were discovered. However, a generic version of the medication, produced by Teva UK, has now been approved by the Medicines Health and Regulatory Authority (MHRA) as safe for use. The NHS has also announced that another medication, cytisine, which works in a similar way to varenicline, is under review by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and may be available in the near future.
The introduction of varenicline is part of the NHS’s broader initiative to offer effective treatments while also delivering substantial savings for taxpayers. By implementing this new pill, NHS England anticipates saving more than £500 million in healthcare costs.
In a statement, Amanda Pritchard, NHS England’s Chief Executive, described varenicline as a potential “game-changer” for smokers trying to quit. Health Secretary Wes Streeting also highlighted that this pill would save lives and reduce NHS expenditures, aligning with the government’s tobacco and vapes bill and broader health goals to foster a healthier society and a stronger economy.
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