The NHS is introducing a free antismoking medication, varenicline, believing it could significantly reduce tobacco-related illness costs, potentially preventing 9,500 deaths in five years.
Research shows varenicline is more effective than nicotine-replacement therapies. It will be available to 85,000 smokers alongside behavioral support, promoting a proactive health strategy.
NHS chief executive Amanda Pritchard described this pill as a potential game-changer for quitters, part of a broader initiative fostering prevention within the NHS.
The UK has about 6 million smokers, with smoking rates varying by region. The rollout follows issues with the previous drug, Champix, which was withdrawn due to safety concerns.
Collection
[
|
...
]