Varenicline and Section 19A products for smoking cessation

Regarding the article Optimal use of smoking cessation pharmacotherapy by Colin Mendelsohn,¹ it should be noted that, due to nitrosamine contamination, varenicline was recalled by its Australian sponsor in 2021, and the date of return is estimated to be in 2023. There are alternative Section 19A approved products available but, as of the time of writing, these are not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, leaving patients with a significant out‑of‑pocket cost. Section 19A products are also by definition temporary supply products and liable to becoming unavailable themselves.

Nick Standen
Pharmacist lecturer, LaTrobe Rural Health School, Bendigo, Vic.