WINNIPEG - Manitoba is now covering the cost of drug to help smokers quit.

Healthy Living Minister Minister Jim Rondeau says Champix is a proven, effective treatment for adult smokers who want to quit.

He says it's part of the NDP government's promise to commit $5 million annually — about two per cent of tobacco revenue — to support residents who want to give up the addiction.

Will Cooke, Canadian Cancer Society tobacco advocacy co-ordinator, says the government is providing access to one of the most effective drug therapies available to quit smoking.

When a prescription is written by the physician, the cost of Champix is eligible for benefit coverage through pharmacare once the income-based family deductible has been met.

A 12-week course of therapy costs about $350.