Pharmac adds anti-smoking drug to subsidy list

Pharmac marked Smokefree Day yesterday by announcing money for the anti-smoking drug bupropion (Zyban) from July 1.

Funding bupropion would provide another subsidised option for people seeking to give up smoking, said Peter Moodie, the Government drug-funding agency's medical director.

The Government funds nicotine replacement therapy through the Ministry of Health's Quitline programme.

Dr Moodie said Pharmac expected the availability of a further funded product, and its availability by prescription from doctors, to increase the number of people using subsidised anti-smoking therapies. About 50,000 people used nicotine replacement therapy annually.

He said bupropion might not be appropriate for all people trying to give up smoking, and should be used in consultation with their doctors.

- NZPA