A new anti-smoking drug that could be twice as effective as similar drugs is expected to be introduced into Greece late next year, medical experts said yesterday.

The pill, Varenicline, targets the central nervous system and is believed to be more potent than current anti-smoking drugs on the market.

“The therapy runs over a period of 12 weeks and is suitable for people over the age of 18,” said Christina Gratziou, assistant professor at Athens University.

The drug, developed by Pfizer, helps smokers with the psychological, physical and emotional aspects of nicotine addiction.

But medical experts added that smokers are ultimately more successful if they use their own willpower to overcome the habit. Greeks are among the heaviest smokers in the EU, with 46 percent using tobacco products.