FDA-approved Medications to Help Patients Quit Smoking

The United States Public Health Service guidelines for quitting smoking or chewing tobacco recommend a combination of counseling and medication. The following six medications are approved by the FDA for that purpose. See FDA packaging for more complete information.

Varenicline (Chantix)

This is the latest medication approved by the FDA for smoking cessation. Marketed by Pfizer, Inc. under the brand name Chantix, this prescription-only medication is intended to help smokers quit in two ways. Like a fundamentally sound football team, which excels at blocking and tackling, varenicline is also good at blocking and tackling. It blocks some of the rewarding effects of nicotine (the addictive drug in tobacco products) and at the same time it tackles the withdrawal most people feel after they quit. The FDA and manufacturer on Jan. 17 added a warning for healthcare providers to use caution prescribing Chantix for patients with pre-existing psychiatric conditions, and to monitor all patients using Chantix for psychological symptoms. See packaging insert for details. For more information on varenicline, click here.

Bupropion (Zyban or Wellbutrin)

Bupropion SR is a prescription pill marketed under the brand name Zyban. It is also available generically. It is designed to help reduce cravings for nicotine. It can also relieve symptoms of depression for some patients. This is not for use if you have a history of seizures or eating disorders or are currently using a monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitor or any other form of bupropion (such as Zyban or Wellbutrin). Treatment is recommended for seven to 12 weeks.

Nicotine Replacement Therapies (NRT)

• Patch. Patches are designed to provide a steady stream of nicotine through your skin over a designated time (16-24 hours, depending on the product). The patch is available via prescription or over the counter (OTC). It’s designed to give you enough nicotine to ease cravings. Treatment is typically recommended for six to eight weeks.
• Gum. This OTC product is recommended for smokers who want something to turn to when experiencing urges to smoke. Chew up to 20-30 pieces a day for six to eight weeks. Use the 4 mg gum if you’re smoking 25 cigarettes or more per day or using chewing tobacco. Use the 2 mg gum if you’re smoking less than 24 cigarettes a day.
• Inhaler. Patients "puff" small doses of nicotine through this prescription product that looks similar to a cigarette. Unlike a cigarette, there is no harmful carbon monoxide. Treatment usually lasts eight to 12 weeks, depending on the patient.
• Nasal spray. This prescription product sprays nicotine into your nose. Recommended use is up to two sprays an hour for as many as three months.
• Lozenge. This OTC medication is usually used eight to 12 weeks. If you typically have your first cigarette or dip within 30 minutes of awakening, use the 4 mg dose. Otherwise use the 2 mg dose. Patients are urged to use at least 6 to 12 lozenges per day.

See Your Doctor
There’s no magic medication to cure addiction to nicotine. However, these medications can increase your chances of quitting two- or three-fold. It’s important to see your doctor to be sure you’re using the right dosage for the appropriate duration.

You May Be Covered
Your insurance company may cover these medications. For more information, click here. To read about Medicaid coverage for quitting smoking, click here.