No Smoking Day, observed annually on March 12, serves as a pivotal reminder of the severe health risks and financial burden associated with smoking.
According to WHO, 1.3 billion people worldwide smoke, with 80% residing in low- and middle-income countries. Smoking remains a major public health threat, killing over 8 million people annually—more than 7 million from direct tobacco use and 1.2 million from exposure to second-hand smoke.
Additionally, research indicates that traditional cigarette smokers are 30% to 40% more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. With smoking posing serious health risks, several publicly listed pharmaceutical companies in India are stepping up to help smokers quit through innovative cessation products.
Cipla, headquartered in Mumbai, is a renowned multinational pharmaceutical company with a strong focus on respiratory health. Recognising the challenges smokers face when attempting to quit, Cipla offers a range of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) designed to ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce dependence on nicotine.
Their product line includes nicotine gums and patches, which are readily available across India, providing accessible solutions for those aiming to quit smoking.
Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., one of India’s largest and most influential pharmaceutical companies, has played a significant role in the smoking cessation market with its prescription medications.
These medications are designed to assist individuals in overcoming nicotine addiction by targeting both the neurological and psychological aspects of dependence.
Alkem Laboratories Ltd, one of India’s leading pharmaceutical companies, has made significant strides in the smoking cessation market with its product nicotine gum.
Recognising the health risks associated with tobacco consumption, Alkem has introduced this nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) product to help smokers quit in a structured and effective manner.
Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd has introduced Kwitz, a nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) designed to help smokers gradually reduce their nicotine dependency. Available in the form of nicotine gums.
It provides a controlled release of nicotine, easing withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, irritability, and restlessness.
Piramal Pharma Limited offers nicotine lozenges as part of its nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) portfolio to assist smokers in quitting. These lozenges provide a controlled release of nicotine, helping to curb cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and restlessness.
Unlike cigarettes, nicotine lozenges deliver nicotine in a safer, smoke-free manner, allowing users to gradually reduce their nicotine intake.
The commitment of these Indian pharmaceutical companies to develop and provide smoking cessation aids plays a crucial role in public health. Their efforts not only support individuals in their journey to quit smoking but also contribute to the broader goal of reducing tobacco-related diseases in India.
On this No Smoking Day, acknowledging and utilising these resources can be the first step towards a healthier, smoke-free life.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.
Published on: Mar 12, 2025, 9:19 AM IST
Neha Dubey
Neha Dubey is a Content Analyst with 3 years of experience in financial journalism, having written for a leading newswire agency and multiple newspapers. At Angel One, she creates daily content on finance and the economy. Neha holds a degree in Economics and a Master’s in Journalism.
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