What is Champix (Varenicline) used for?

Champix (Varenicline) is an oral medication prescribed to help smokers give up the habit. It operates by stimulating the nicotine receptors in the brain to reduce the need to smoke. The medication is usually prescribed along with changes in behavior to provide the greatest chance of success from treatment. Your physician may also prescribe it for other purposes that are not listed here.

How should I use Champix (Varenicline)?

Strictly follow your physician's instructions while using Champix (Varenicline) to ensure the safest and most effective results from treatment. The normal dosage is one tablet administered daily one week before the scheduled quit date. This dosage is then typically increased to two tablets taken daily which is then reduced as instructed by your physician to wean you off of the medication. Your particular instructions will depend on your health condition and the severity of your symptoms. Swallow the tablets whole and unaltered with a large glass of water. They may be taken with or without food but a meal or snack is recommended prior to use if you experience nausea. Never crush, split, or chew the tablets as this may destroy or alter the effects of their contents. Ask your physician any questions you have about the medicine to ensure the correct usage.

What are the side effects of Champix (Varenicline)?

Side effects associated with the use of Champix (Varenicline) include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth or bad taste in the mouth
• Upset stomach, constipation, or bloating
• Nausea
• Insomnia or nightmares

Serious side effects that may require emergency medical assistance are numbness on one side of the body, faintness, difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe headache, sensitive skin, easier bruising, fever, or any sign of a skin rash. Inform your physician about any symptoms that are intense or worrying to make sure the correct changes are made to your dosage or application frequency to prevent further problems from occurring.

Please Note

Do not begin using Champix (Varenicline) if you are pregnant or if the patient being treated is under the age of eighteen. It is also important to inform your physician if you have epilepsy, a history of depression, cardiovascular disease, or decreased kidney function as these conditions may cause unexpected complications during treatment requiring alterations to your regimen.

Strictly follow all instructions provided to you by your physician or pharmacist while using Champix (Varenicline). Optimum and safe dosage can differ based on the patient and the condition being treated.

As this medication may be unsafe for certain patients, it is essential you always inform your physician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as if you have any allergies, other illnesses, or ongoing health conditions, and if you are taking any other form of medication, supplements, or herbal products.

Immediately seek emergency medical care if you have an allergic or hypersensitive reaction. Common signs of a reaction include hives, swelling, skin rashes, chest pains, as well as trouble breathing or swallowing.