GSK encourages smoking cessation with the launch of NiQuitin in the Middle East

GSK- Consumer Healthcare launched its proven Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) NiQuitin in the Middle East. The brand made its regional foray through a drive to achieve a smoke free environment at Dubai Mall. The campaign, which will be based on a series of events, is geared to raise awareness on the health benefits associated with quitting smoking and the role of NRTs as cessation aids.

Nicotine Replacement Therapies have proven to be clinically safe and effective and help reduce withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, anxiety and irritability, through a reducing nicotine dose without the harmful tar or gases inhaled in through cigarettes and water pipe (Shisha).

NiQuitin® is a Nicotine Replacement Therapy designed to help smokers quit. Approved by the FDA in 1991, NiQuitin is often touted as the original NRT.

In addition to the product launch, NiQuitin has also introduced its smokers support helpline 800-123-QUIT (7848), which would cater to smokers and their family members with information and queries related to quitting smoking.

“The launch of NiQuitin and our Dubai Mall initiative is reflective of our commitment towards a healthier community and environment. In addition to offering a proven Nicotine Replacement Therapy in the form of NiQuitin, our 800-123-QUIT (7848) helpline goes live to extend information and support to people willing to rid themselves of the fatal habit,” Said Gjis Sanders, Marketing Director - Wellness, GSK Consumer Healthcare.

“The combination of support, knowledge and NiQuitin are ideal tools for giving up smoking. And in the availability of such aids, we foresee an evident rise in the success rate of quitting attempts across the region,” he added.

Visitors to Dubai Mall will have the opportunity to learn more about available aids and support networks in the UAE through Ministry of Health orientation booths inside the Dubai Mall.

NiQuitin operates globally with a mission to support smokers who seek help in quitting and intends to continue with the brand’s spirit in the region as well. The Dubai Mall drive is aimed to raise awareness and is a first in the series of branding smoke-free environments across the region to emphasize on the health and environmental deterrents associated with the habit.

“We all understand the hazards of smoking, but constant reminders always help drive the message home. UAE has an over 25% smoking prevalence amongst males only, ranks at 43 globally for cigarette consumption per capita. The government has taken some commendable steps to raise awareness through smoking cessation clinics and the decision to include graphic images on cigarette packs. Once smokers realize the need to quit, NiQuitin is playing its part to explain ‘How’ they can quit and that too with a great amount of ease,” said Ramez Sawiris, Regulatory Affairs Director GSK Consumer Healthcare.

“With over 750,000 visitors a week, we are excited about the number of people our Dubai Mall campaign will help influence. We thank the Ministry of Health for their participation and support and look forward the commencement of the drive,” he concluded.