September 2nd, 2008 07:54

Pills Can't Boost the Success of Quitting

National Health Service (NHS) reported that a controversial pill is boosting the success of smokers in England in kicking the habit.

Researchers found that one in seven people trying to quit are using Champix, according to the first figures published since the stop smoking drug was licensed in 2006.

And NHS Information Centre data showed 63% of people were successful last year at the four-week mark compared to half using nicotine replacement therapy.

According to a study, Champix has come under investigation over reports it causes suicidal feelings. The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency said that it is "closely" monitoring the drug after almost 3,000 reports of adverse reactions.

So far there have been more than 200 reports of suicidal thoughts in patients taking Champix. And more than 350 reports of depression, although these have mainly involved patients who had an underlying psychiatric illness.

The drug is unusual as it both stimulates and blocks specific nicotinic receptors in the brain.

By stimulating the receptor it is thought to mimic the effects of nicotine to reduce cravings.

At the same time, it partially blocks the receptor preventing nicotine from binding to it, resulting in a weaker response in people who give in to temptation and have a cigarette.

Trials suggested around 44% of smokers give up after taking the drug twice a day for 12 weeks, compared with 18% of those given a placebo and 30% of those taking another major anti-smoking drug, bupropion. Researchers also found that smoking ban helped people to quit. Health minister Ann Keen said she was delighted with the increase in people successfully quitting smoking.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to say congratulations to all those who have made such positive efforts to kick the habit - very well done. This shows that the investments that we are making in helping smokers to quit are having a positive impact."