A new prescription-only pill designed to help people quit smoking has been given the green light by the NHS.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) examined its use and is expected to allow the drug, varenicline to be prescribed to coincide with the start of the smoking ban in England in July.
Unlike other drugs used to help people quit cigarettes, varenicline or champix does not contain nicotine - but mimics its affects to reduce cravings by stimulating and blocking specific nicotinic receptors in the brain.
Trials showed 44 per cent of people kicked the habit after 12-week course of the drug.
NICE is expected to suggest that the treatment will only be given in conjunction with counselling and professional support from doctors.
A spokeswoman for NICE said: "Having looked at all the evidence, our independent committee have concluded that varenicline appears to be a good way to help people who want to quit smoking.
"The draft guidance also recommends that varenicline should normally be provided in conjunction with counselling and support, but if such support is not available, this should not stop smokers receiving treatment with varenicline."
A full 12-week course will cost around £163.80, with side-effects including nausea reported.
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