A new clinical practice guideline from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense has identified two approaches as the preferred treatments for tobacco use: varenicline and combination nicotine replacement therapy. The recommendations represent a significant clarification of what works best to help people quit, drawing on the latest evidence to guide clinicians and patients alike.
Tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of death worldwide, linked to cancer, heart disease, stroke and chronic lung conditions. Yet quitting is notoriously difficult, and the range of available aids can be confusing. The new guidance helps cut through that confusion by elevating two options above the rest. Varenicline, a prescription medication, works by reducing cravings and the pleasure derived from smoking, while combination nicotine replacement pairs a patch with a faster-acting form such as gum or lozenges to manage urges more effectively. The guidelines also emphasise that treatment should be tailored to the individual and paired with behavioural support. For the millions trying to quit, the message is encouraging: effective help exists, and it should be easier to access.
