Phramacotherapies
Pharmacotherapies include nicotine-based and non-nicotine-based medications that are given to the smoker, such as nicotine replacement therapies, bupropion, and varenicline.
In Kenya, available pharmacotherapies include:
- Bupropion (also known as Zyban, Wellbutrin, or Aplenzin) – Bupropion is classified as an antidepressant. It is used for tobacco use disorder because it reduces cravings and nicotine withdrawal symptoms by acting on the chemicals in the brain responsible for nicotine cravings. Bupropion does not contain nicotine and works best if it is consumed one or two weeks before quitting. In Kenya, a prescription is required for Bupropion.
- Varenicline – Varenicline (Chantix) is an oral prescription drug. It acts as a nicotine antagonist and agonist. As an antagonist, it blocks nicotine’s connection to receptors in the brain, making tobacco use less satisfying and desirable. As an agonist, it mimics the effects of nicotine, thereby reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Treatment usually starts 1-2 weeks before the quit date.
- Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) – NRT aims to partially replace the nicotine found in cigarette products while removing hazardous chemicals. Nicotine patches, nicotine gum, nicotine inhalers, nicotine lozenges, and nicotine nasal sprays are various forms of NRT available in Kenya. NRTs lessen nicotine addiction withdrawal symptoms, allowing tobacco users to concentrate on the psychological components of quitting. The best outcomes are obtained when behavioral counseling and follow-up sessions are used at the same time.
In Kenya, Bupropion (150mg tablets), and Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT (as polacrilex (/polacrilin complex), chewing gum (2mg and 4 mg), and transdermal patches (7-21mg/24hours) are listed as essential medicines.
NRTs are available from private pharmacies in Kenya without a prescription. The Kenya National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIF) covers these medications following admission to a hospital.
