Nicotine patches cost too much, says lobby group

Anti-smoking group Ash Ireland says it is extremely worried the high cost of nicotine replacement therapy could be discouraging people from quitting.

“Vat is being charged at 23% on nicotine replacement patches compared to a rate of 5% in the UK. This and other issues are creating a significant price differential between Ireland and the UK,” said Ash Ireland chairman, Dr Ross Morgan.

While prices vary, a week’s supply of patches can cost about €23 in Ireland, compared to €14 in Britain — a 43% difference.