An Analysis of the Cost-Effectiveness and Efficacy of Tobacco Cessation Aids
Abstract
Tobacco use costs the Department of Defense over one billion dollars in losses annually. The TRICARE formulary does not currently include smoking cessation medications, limiting availability to potentially helpful methods of cessation. This paper reviews the major approaches to cessation, both in relative success rates and cost effectiveness: abrupt cessation, nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion, and varenicline. Varenicline was shown to have the highest individual success rates with common but mild side-effects. Bupropion was determined the most cost effective medication, but it carries a risk of seizures and disqualifies nuclear field personnel. Nicotine replacement therapy, while slightly improving success rates, was shown to have the least cost-benefit and lowest efficacy. Counseling is recommended in adjunct of all pharmaceutical approaches. The paper concludes that varenicline is an effective and safe medication for smoking cessation and despite its psychotropic status should be considered for waiverable status for submariners and nuclear field service members.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 13, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA474373
Entities
People
- Jason B. Brill
- Jeffery Gertner
- Marion A. Gregg
- Wayne G. Horn
Organizations
- Naval Submarine Medical Research Laboratory