GlaxoSmithKline nicotine patches to be given away in NHS scheme

GlaxoSmithKline's NiQuitin nicotine patches are to be given away free of charge as part of a new smoking cessation kit being distributed by UK pharmacies.

From January 1st 2011, the Department of Health's NHS Quit Kit was amended to include coupons for a free one-week trial of GlaxoSmithKline's NiQuitin Clear and Novartis' Nicotinell patches.

These patches have been offered by the manufacturers at a specially negotiated price and come alongside a number of other stop-smoking tools and therapy information.

The government is spending less than two pounds for each kit, which are already available from Co-operative and Whitworth pharmacies and will be launched by other chains over the next two months.

It is hoped that by introducing smokers to treatments such as nicotine patches, they will be more likely to experience success in quitting the habit permanently.

In addition to patches, GlaxoSmithKline's NiQuitin range includes products such as nicotine lozenges and gum.