This slide presents the approximate daily costs of treatment for the various pharmacotherapies for cessation. These are estimates* based on the recommended initial dosing for each agent. Costs can vary considerably depending on the patient’s level of smoking, degree of nicotine dependence, product selection (trade versus generic), and need for additional doses of short-acting NRT (gum, lozenge, nasal spray, or oral inhaler).

As a comparison, the cost for one pack of cigarettes (national average, approximately $4.26) is shown (Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, 2006). In general, the daily cost of pharmacotherapy approximates the cost of one pack of cigarettes. For more exact estimates, refer to the Pharmacologic Product Guide.

*Cost calculated using the most expensive average wholesale price for each agent (Drug Topics Redbook, 2006).

Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. (2006). “State Cigarette Excise Tax Rates & Rankings.” Retrieved December 31, 2006, from http://www.tobaccofreekids.org/research/factsheets/pdf/0097.pdf .
Drug Topics Redbook. (2006, December). Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc.

Slide is used with permission, Rx for Change: Clinician-Assisted Tobacco Cessation. Copyright © 1999-2007 The Regents of the University of California, University of Southern California, and Western University of Health Sciences. All rights reserved.