The VA/DoD EBPWG has adopted the Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence clinical practice guideline developed by the U.S. Public Health Service (PHS), 2008 Update. This guideline describes the critical decision points in the Management of Tobacco Use and provides clear and comprehensive evidence based recommendations incorporating current information and practices for practitioners throughout the DoD and VA Health Care systems. The guideline is intended to improve patient outcomes and local management of patients who use tobacco products.

Due to practical experience within the VA, Varenicline is considered second line therapy (after nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion, and combination therapy). The VA Criteria for prescribing Varenicline and Combination Therapy appear at the links below as does the DoD Varenicline Safety Notice of May 2008.

Disclaimer: This Clinical Practice Guideline is intended for use only as a tool to assist a clinician/healthcare professional and should not be used to replace clinical judgment.