Chantix

The active ingredient in Chantix is varenicline tartrate. The mechanism of action involves it being a partial agonist of the nicotinic receptor. It functions similarly to nicotine in your brain to help lessen cravings and keep withdrawal symptoms at bay.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Chantix. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Chantix:

• This medication can be used in three different ways. Consult your physician about the best approach for you.
• One week before your quit date, begin taking Chantix. Don't forget to stop smoking on the day you have scheduled. Take this medication for 12 weeks in total.
• Before you decide on a stop date, begin taking Chantix, and then pick a time that falls between 8 and 35 days after you begin therapy. Take this medication for 12 weeks in total.
• Over 12 weeks, begin taking Chantix and gradually cut back on your daily cigarette use until you quit smoking altogether. Then, for a total of 24 weeks, take an additional 12 weeks.
• After eating, take Chantix with a full glass of water.
• Whether or not you take medicine like varenicline, you may experience symptoms of nicotine withdrawal after quitting smoking. Increased appetite, weight gain, difficulty sleeping, a slowed heart rate, restlessness or anxiety, and the desire to smoke are some of the signs of withdrawal.
• New or worsening depression and other mental health issues may also develop as a result of quitting smoking. If you experience depression, agitation, hostility, aggression, suicidal thoughts, or self-harm, stop taking this medication and contact your doctor.

The most common side effects of Chantix seen in clinical trials include:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Headaches.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Changes in taste.
• Constipation.
• Sleepwalking.
• Nightmares or vivid dreams.
• Dry mouth.
• Indigestion.
• Aggressive behavior.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Chantix. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Trouble breathing, chest pain, and swelling of the face, tongue, lips, and gums are signs of a severe allergic reaction or angioedema.
• Skin rash with bumps or blisters (sores) is a severe skin reaction.
• Accidental injuries include experiencing fatigue, vertigo, or difficulty concentrating before engaging in activities (such as operating a motor vehicle).
• Increased risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Seizures.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Chantix. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Chantix, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Mental disease or depression.
• History of seizures.
• Kidney problems or disease (or dialysis if you are receiving treatment).
• Heart or blood vessel issues.
• If you consume alcohol.

• Patients who have a history of severe hypersensitivity, adverse events, or skin reactions to the medicine should not take Chantix.

After a week or so, Chantix begins to reduce your desire to smoke. To fully benefit from this medication, you will need to keep taking it as directed.

When Chantix is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Warfarin.
• Theophylline.
• Bupropion.
• Nicotine patches.

Chantix should usually be started one week before the date you have chosen to quit smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products.

Take 0.5 mg orally once a day for days one through three.

During days 4–7, take 0.5 mg orally twice a day.

Take 1 mg orally twice a day starting on day 8.

Although most individuals take Chantix for 12 weeks, your doctor may recommend an additional 12 weeks.

Consult your healthcare practitioner if you aren't ready to stop smoking one week after beginning Chantix.

If you have kidney issues, your dose may change.

If you miss a dose of Chantix, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Store Chantix at room temperature and out of reach of children.

Pfizer is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Chantix.

There are several lower-cost versions of Chantix available. Brand-name Chantix was recalled in 2021 because of potentially cancer-causing chemicals found in the medication during production.

There is no set way to stop taking Chantix. However, always speak to your healthcare provider as to what is best for you before changing your dose or stopping this medication.

If you are pregnant, let your doctor know. The potential harm that varenicline may cause to an unborn child if used during pregnancy is unknown. Smoking during pregnancy, however, can damage the fetus or result in birth abnormalities.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. Your kid may spit up or vomit more than usual and may have a seizure if you use this medication while breastfeeding.