The UK's National Health Service (NHS) recently announced the free distribution of varenicline, a drug designed to help smokers quit. The move aims to reduce the costs associated with serious illnesses caused by smoking.
Smoking in the UK
According to a 2023 survey, around 11,9% of UK adults, or nearly six million people, are regular smokers. The breakdown by country is as follows:
- England: 11,6%
- Wales: 12,6%
- Scotland: 13,5%
- Northern Ireland: 13,3%
Varenicline: An Effective Tool to Quit Smoking
Varenicline, formerly marketed as Champix, is a nicotine receptor agonist. It works by reducing the effects of nicotine on the brain, thereby reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Patients are encouraged to take this medication for 12 to 24 weeks, along with a behavioral support program. Possible side effects include nausea, sleep disturbances, vivid dreams, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, and dizziness.
Economic impact for the NHS
Smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease in the UK, costing the NHS around £2,5 billion a year. In 2022-2023, more than 400 hospital admissions in England were directly related to smoking. A 000 study found that every £2018 spent on varenicline, combined with behavioural support, saved £1,65 in treatment costs for tobacco-related illnesses.
Worldwide use of varenicline
Varenicline is approved in 116 countries and has been prescribed to more than 24 million smokers worldwide. Success rates range from 14% to 50%, depending on the study and the length of the clinical trials. However, it is generally considered more effective than nicotine replacement therapies, such as gum or patches.
Other UK government initiatives against smoking
In addition to the distribution of varenicline, the UK government has introduced the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to gradually increase the legal age for purchasing tobacco products. This will prohibit anyone born after 1 January 2009 from legally purchasing cigarettes, creating a "tobacco-free generation". This initiative, combined with the distribution of varenicline, could save over £500 million a year.
Smoking: A Global Health Problem
According to the World Health Organization, tobacco use causes about 8 million deaths each year, including 1,3 million among non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke. In 2021, WHO estimated that modest investments in smoking cessation programmes could help 88 million people quit smoking by 2030, saving 9,3 million lives.
Conclusion
The free provision of varenicline by the NHS represents a significant step forward in the fight against smoking in the UK. By combining this treatment with behavioural support programmes and strong legislative measures, the UK government hopes to significantly reduce the number of smokers and the costs associated with tobacco-related illnesses.
