ISSUES WITH THE SUPPLY OF CHAMPIX (VARENICLINE)

THIS CONTENT HAS NOW EXPIRED

There are issues with the supply of Champix which could last all summer. We are awaiting a statement from Pfizer on this shortly and will keep you updated.

The Hertfordshire Health Improvement Service (HHIS) has requested that we communicate the information from the NCSCT e-bulletin, an extract of the key message is below.

For now, we are asking that all service providers use alternative stop smoking products with clients/patients –  such as NRT.

Where smokers have already started a course of Champix, existing pharmacy stocks should be exhausted to fulfil the 12-week programme of supply; where this is not possible, we should advise those smokers on switching to alternative products for the remainder of their quit attempt. 

Guidance is also in the Clinical tools section of the NCSCT website.

All practitioners in Hertfordshire are being asked to advise clients/patients to liaise with pharmacies in advance to see if they have stock before making the journey. Where stock is an issue, clients should contact HHIS on 0800 389 3998 or 01442 453071 so that they can discuss alternative pharmacotherapy and issue voucher codes.