Varenicline helps smokers quit, according to recent clinical trials. It's tough giving up smoking and relapse is common. Medication and counseling help but there is a clear need for new approaches. Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University now report on success with varenicline, a new drug which blocks the effect of nicotine in the brain.

In a trial comparing the new drug with bupropion, a standard anti-smoking medication, and placebo, 44 per cent of those on varenicline were abstinent at weeks nine through 12 of the 12 week trial. This was compared to 29.5 per cent on bupropion and 17.7 per cent on placebo. The figures fell somewhat over weeks nine to 24 but were still superior to varenicline. The new drug reduced craving and withdrawal symptoms and, for those who continued to smoke, the satisfaction was reduced. Other studies support varenicline's effectiveness. However, the majority of those in the trial were still unable to quit so clearly it is no pancea. But it is good to have another tool to help those who want to improve their health by giving up smoking.

Source

Journal of the American Medical Association 5th July 2006 Volume 296 pages 47-55