In Germany, smokers with severe tobacco dependence are entitled to one-time drug therapy for smoking cessation through SHI. IQWiG conducted an assessment of the benefits of four approved drugs for treating severe tobacco dependence: bupropion, cytisine, nicotine, and varenicline. The findings show that nicotine and varenicline have clear advantages in helping smokers quit, despite potential side effects. Subgroup analyses for bupropion and cytisine were hindered by lack of data. The severity of tobacco dependence is a prerequisite for reimbursement, but this criterion was criticized for being too narrow. The G-BA ultimately decides which drugs for severe tobacco dependence are reimbursed.
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IQWiG evaluates smoking cessation drugs for severe tobacco dependence treatment
