Did you know that stop-smoking medications are covered by the government?
There are 2 options:
1) Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
Nicotine replacement therapy (in the form of nicotine chewing gum, lozenges, adhesive patches or inhalers), help you quit smoking by giving you the same amount of nicotine you would consume through smoking, without the other harmful toxins in cigarette smoke. Gradually tapering the dose of NRT helps to reduce the withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking. The government covers 100% of the cost of one form of nicotine replacement therapy (nicotine gum, lozenges, patches or inhalers) for 84 days total. Eligible B.C. residents who wish to quit smoking can visit our pharmacy to obtain NRT free of charge without a prescription. Simply bring your Care Card and medication list for registration.
2) Prescription Stop-Smoking Medications
Bupropion (Zyban®) and varenicline (Champix®) are 2 smoking cessation oral medications commonly prescribed in B.C. They do not contain nicotine but work on the brain to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the urge to smoke. Government coverage of prescribed stop-smoking medications depends on whether you have met your Fair Pharmacare annual deductible. After visiting your doctor, simply bring in your Care Card and third party insurance cards with your prescription and we can check if it is covered.