Read articles from Europe

November 12, 2024 by bbc.com

NHS England will offer an "improved" stop smoking pill, Varenicline, to aid quitting smoking. The daily tablet is as effective as vaping and better than nicotine gum/patches. E-cigarettes may also be provided by NHS services. Varenicline fights cravings, approved as safe, and helps with withdrawal symptoms. It can assist around one in four individuals to quit smoking long-term. This initiative could help 85,000 people annually and prevent smoking-related deaths. Vapes are not prescribed by GPs but are recognized as a cessation aid. The NHS aims to enhance access to smoking cessation methods. Varenicline is considered highly effective, especially when combined with counseling. Online resources and healthcare providers can offer support for those seeking to quit smoking.

November 12, 2024 by firstpost.com

NHS England introduces Varenicline, a new pill to aid smoking cessation, aiming to help over 85,000 smokers annually and prevent 9,500 smoking-related deaths in the next five years. The drug reduces nicotine cravings, blocks its effects on the brain, and minimizes withdrawal symptoms. The pill, alongside behavioral support, has potential to help one in four people quit for at least six months. UK government initiatives, including raising the minimum tobacco-buying age, align with the NHS's goal of creating a smoke-free generation. Smoking burdens the NHS, with over 400,000 smoking-related hospital admissions yearly. Varenicline offers a cost-effective solution, saving millions in healthcare costs while improving public health.

November 12, 2024 by telegraph.co.uk

A new anti-smoking pill, varenicline, will be provided to around 100,000 patients annually by the NHS. The drug helps combat smoking addiction by reducing nicotine effects, curbing cravings, and addressing withdrawal symptoms. Originally known as Champix, the drug was reissued by Teva UK after being temporarily withdrawn due to impurities. NHS officials anticipate preventing 9,500 smoking-related deaths with its usage over the next five years. This move coincides with the introduction of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill in Parliament, aiming to create a smoke-free generation. NHS England suggests that when paired with behavioral support, the pill could assist one in four users in quitting smoking for at least six months.

November 11, 2024 by vox.com

Mental health care has evolved with advancements in neuroscience and pharmacology, yet challenges persist in understanding and treating mental illnesses effectively. Despite funding and medication availability, the complexity of the brain continues to hinder progress, causing skepticism towards chemical imbalances as the sole cause. The history of psychiatric treatments reveals a shift from physical interventions to drug-based approaches. The introduction of new drugs like Cobenfy shows promise but also highlights the need for alternative, community-based care models alongside neuroscience. Bridging the gap between medical and non-biomedical approaches may offer a holistic solution for mental health challenges.

November 11, 2024 by clearingtheair.eu

A new report reveals the EU will not achieve its 'smoke free' target until 2100, 60 years later than planned. By contrast, Sweden is set to reach this goal in a week, thanks to promoting reduced-risk nicotine products. The EU's smoking rates have only slightly decreased, with 24% of adults smoking. Countries with strict regulations on such products, like Ireland and the Netherlands, show minimal progress. Over-regulation can drive smokers back to traditional cigarettes, increasing health risks. The report emphasizes the untapped potential of safer alternatives to reduce smoking prevalence, calling for modernized strategies to achieve a smoke-free society.

November 11, 2024 by gfn.tv

In the second part of our Czech Republic special, Filip Blaha guides us through the possible consequences of new regulations targeting psychoactive substances, and the potential for further vaping restrictions in the country. Make sure to check out our previous episode where Filip breaks down these new regulations in detail!

November 08, 2024 by tvpworld.com

Nicotine pouches containing synthetic nicotine, placed on the gums, have become popular in Poland as an alternative to smoking or vaping. However, health experts warn that they pose significant health risks, including cancers of the mouth, throat, and pancreas, as well as cardiovascular issues. Tobacco-containing pouches, known as "snus," are already banned in Poland. Polish Health Minister Izabela Leszczyna announced on TVP Info that officials are now working on legislation to also ban pouches containing synthetic nicotine.

November 08, 2024 by polskieradio.pl

Poland's Health Minister, Izabela Leszczyna, announced plans to ban synthetic nicotine pouches over health concerns. The ministry is working on legislation to prohibit the sale and distribution of these products.

November 07, 2024 by eureporter.co

France’s plan to ban nicotine pouches seems like a counterproductive step that may increase the illegal trade of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products. Instead, adopting a harm-reduction approach like Sweden’s could be more beneficial for public health. Sweden's model has been effective in reducing smoking rates, bringing the country close to achieving its smoke-free target. Nicotine pouches have become popular in France, particularly among people looking to quit smoking. However, Health Minister Geneviève Darrieussecq has called them "dangerous products" due to their high nicotine content, and a ban is expected to be announced soon.

November 07, 2024 by tobaccoreporter.com

Greece plans to enforce stricter penalties for businesses selling alcohol, electronic cigarettes, and vaping products to minors. This initiative involves multiple ministries and aims to enhance alcohol laws. Offenders may face imprisonment, fines, and business closure. Authorities noticed past oversights regarding minors' access to harmful products. Changes include increased law enforcement and tougher regulations to safeguard minors.