**Smoking Pill Available On NHS Now**

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Post on Nov 13, 2024

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Smoking Pill Now Available on NHS: A New Era in Quitting?

The NHS is now offering a new smoking cessation medication in the form of a pill. This innovative treatment, known as varenicline, is available to smokers who are serious about quitting. The pill is designed to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for smokers to break free from their addiction.

What is Varencline?

Varenicline is a prescription medication that works by mimicking the effects of nicotine in the brain. This helps to reduce the intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms that often make quitting smoking so difficult. Varenicline is available in pill form and is taken once a day.

Who is Eligible for Varenicline?

While the NHS is offering varenicline to smokers, not everyone will be eligible. Your doctor will assess your individual circumstances and determine if this medication is right for you.

Here are some factors that may influence eligibility:

• Smoking history: You need to be a current smoker who is motivated to quit.
• Health conditions: If you have certain medical conditions, your doctor might advise against using varenicline.
• Other medications: Your doctor will need to consider any other medications you are currently taking.

How to Get Varenicline Through the NHS

If you are interested in trying varenicline, you need to speak to your GP. They will be able to assess your eligibility and provide you with further information about the medication.

The process typically involves:

1. Consultation with your GP: Discuss your smoking history, health conditions, and motivation to quit.
2. Assessment and prescription: Your doctor will assess your suitability for varenicline and provide a prescription if necessary.
3. Dispensing of medication: You can collect your prescription at a pharmacy.

Benefits of Using Varenicline

Varenicline has been shown to significantly increase the chances of successfully quitting smoking. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Reduced cravings: Varenicline helps to manage the intense cravings that often make quitting difficult.
• Withdrawal symptom relief: The medication can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms like irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.
• Improved chances of quitting: Studies have shown that varenicline can double the chances of successfully quitting smoking compared to using nicotine replacement therapy alone.

Potential Side Effects

Like any medication, varenicline can cause some side effects. These are generally mild and temporary.

Common side effects include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Sleep disturbances

Serious side effects are rare but may include:

• Mood changes
• Suicidal thoughts
• Seizures

It is crucial to discuss any concerns or side effects you experience with your doctor.

The Future of Smoking Cessation

The introduction of varenicline on the NHS represents a positive step forward in the fight against smoking. By offering this effective medication, the NHS is providing smokers with a valuable tool to help them quit for good.

Combined with other support services like stop smoking clinics and counselling, varenicline can significantly improve the chances of a successful quit attempt.

If you're a smoker and are considering quitting, talk to your GP about varenicline and the other support services available. You may be surprised at how easy it can be to break free from nicotine addiction.

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