Soon smokers may be able to quit by taking a vaccine that prevents nicotine from reaching the brain when smoking. The vaccine works by creating antibodies that bind to nicotine molecules, which prevents them from passing from the blood to the brain.

The NicVAX vaccine recently moved one step closer to being on the market after GlaxoSmithKline signed a deal with the creator of the vaccine, Nabi Pharmaceuticals. GSK will pay $40 million up front and up to $500 million in the future to Nabi.

Studies show that the vaccine cuts in half the number of people resuming their habit over a six month period compared to those taking a placebo. Those who received the vaccine were 3.5 more likely not to be smoking after a year.

The vaccine could offer a breakthrough treatment for those who haven't been able to quit using other smoking cessation products.