7 Jul 2011

Prison quit-smoking drug to be reviewed

12:10 pm on 7 July 2011

The Corrections Department says it will review its prescriptions of a quit-smoking drug that has been found to heighten the risk of heart attack.

Smoking was banned in prisons at the start of this month.

Scientists have found the likelihood of developing serious heart problems is 72% higher for patients taking Champix, compared with those taking a placebo.

The department says a small number of prisoners are on Champix for clinical reasons, but these prescriptions will be reviewed.