Tashkin et al randomized 504 patients at 27 centers with COPD and FEV1 > 49% to varenicline or placebo for 12 weeks, with 52 weeks follow up. Smoking cessation / abstinence rate (carbon monoxide-confirmed) was 42% vs 9% in weeks 9 - 12 (1' endpoint), and 19% vs. 6% in weeks 9 - 52 (p<0.0001). And even better, no one killed themselves! (n=504). CHEST 2011;139:591-599.