Chantix (other name Champix)

Common use

Champix tablet aids in quitting smoking by lessening the desire for a cigarette as well as the unpleasant sensation that comes with quitting. It works by reducing the nicotine's influence on the brain, which reduces the pleasure of smoking and the desire to smoke.

Dosage and direction

Champix tablets can be taken with or without food and should be taken at the same time every day. Take it according to your doctor's instructions for dosage and duration. Champix tablets are taken twice daily, typically for 12 or 24 weeks. Treatment should begin 1-2 weeks before your target quit date. This drug should not be abruptly stopped without first seeing your doctor.

Precautions

Champix is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as its effects on the baby are not well studied. Smoking during pregnancy poses serious risks to both mother and baby, including reduced oxygen supply, low birth weight, and premature birth.

Contraindications

Champix is not suitable for everyone. Do not take Champix if you: Are under 18 years old; Are pregnant or breastfeeding; Have an allergy to Varenicline or other Champix ingredients; Have a history of psychiatric illness, active depression, or suicidal thoughts; Have seizures, epilepsy, or severe kidney disease (dose adjustments may be required).

Possible side effect

The majority of side effects are minor and will go away as your body adjusts to the medicine. If they don't go away or you're concerned about them, see your doctor.
The most common side-effects with Champix are: nausea (feeling sick), insomnia (difficulty sleeping), abnormal dreams, headache and nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the nose and throat).

Drug interaction

There are no significant interactions between Champix and most medications. However: Avoid using nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) such as patches, gum, or sprays alongside Champix, as they may interfere with its effectiveness; Quitting smoking can alter how your body processes certain medications, including insulin, theophylline, and warfarin. Inform your doctor if you are taking these medications; Alcohol tolerance may decrease while on Champix, so monitor your intake.

Missed dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue as normal. Do not double your dose.

Overdose

Seek emergency medical assistance if you experience chest pain, signs of a heart attack, or stroke while on Varenicline, this could be a sign of an overdose.

Storage

Keep away from children and pets, at room temperature in a dry and dark place.