What is Chantix?
IntroductionChantix, also known as Varenicline, is a prescription medication that helps people quit smoking. It is manufactured and marketed by Pfizer, Inc.
FunctionChantix works by binding to nicotine receptors in the brain, reducing the pleasurable effects of smoking and easing withdrawal symptoms. This makes it easier for smokers to quit smoking.
UsageChantix is taken orally as a pill. It is generally started one week before the planned quit date and taken for 12 weeks. If the patient quits smoking during this time, treatment may continue for an additional 12 weeks.
DosageThe dosage of Chantix varies depending on the patient's smoking history and other factors. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Taking too much Chantix can increase the risk of side effects.
Side EffectsCommon side effects of Chantix include nausea, vomiting, headache, trouble sleeping, and abnormal dreams. Some patients may experience more severe side effects, such as depressed mood, suicidal thoughts, and allergic reactions. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Prescription and CoverageSince Chantix is a prescription medication, it can only be obtained through a licensed healthcare provider. Some insurance plans may cover the cost of Chantix; however, it is important to check with your insurance provider to confirm coverage.
ConclusionChantix is a medication that helps people quit smoking by reducing the pleasurable effects of smoking and easing withdrawal symptoms. It is important to follow dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider and be aware of potential side effects. If you are interested in using Chantix to quit smoking, speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions about chantix
According to its manufacturers, Chantix binds to the receptors in your brain where nicotine normally binds. Because of the drug's presence, nicotine can't bind to these brain receptors and cause the drop in dopamine that creates nicotine cravings (1). Doctors often prescribe Chantix before you stop smoking.
Chantix was originally approved in 2006 for use in adults as an aid to smoking cessation treatment, and safety and efficacy in pediatric patients had not been established at that time. Under the Pediatric Research Equity Act, the sponsor was required to study the drug in appropriate pediatric patients.
The most common adverse event associated with CHANTIX treatment is nausea, occurring in 30% of patients treated at the recommended dose, compared with 10% in patients taking a comparable placebo regimen [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9)].
Common Chantix side effects include stomach-related symptoms like nausea, constipation, and gas. Abnormal dreams and mood changes are also possible. Rarely, more serious side effects - like skin reactions and seizures - can happen when you take Chantix.
CHANTIX should not be used in children 16 years of age and under. It is not known if CHANTIX is safe and effective when used with other stop smoking medicines. Who should not take CHANTIX? Do not take CHANTIX if you have had a serious allergic or skin reaction to CHANTIX.
Chantix is a pill that you take with a large glass of water. Your doctor will tell you how often and what dose to take. It takes at least one week to work, and for some people even longer. Once it starts working you will think less frequently about cigarettes.
It has been withdrawn as a precaution, because of an impurity found in the medicine. It may be unavailable long-term. It's not yet known whether it will be available again in future. Champix is a medicine that can help you stop smoking.
What Is Varenicline and How Does It Work? Varenicline is a prescription medication used as an aid to smoking cessation and for the treatment of dry eye disease. Varenicline is available under the following different brand names: Chantix, Tyrvaya.
CHANTIX should not be used in children 16 years of age and under. It is not known if CHANTIX is safe and effective when used with other stop smoking medicines. Who should not take CHANTIX? Do not take CHANTIX if you have had a serious allergic or skin reaction to CHANTIX.
If you have cardiovascular disease, taking Chantix may increase your risk of certain cardiovascular adverse events. Contact your healthcare professional if you experience new or worsening symptoms of cardiovascular disease while taking Chantix, for example: Shortness of breath or trouble breathing.
In July 2021, Pfizer halted the production of Chantix (varenicline tartrate) and recalled select lots due to elevated nitrosamine levels. This recall created a shortage of an effective treatment for tobacco and nicotine dependence.
Pfizer halted the production of Chantix (varenicline tartrate) in July 2021 and recalled select lots due to elevated nitrosamine levels, according to the report in Journal of the American Medical Association Network Open.
If you have cardiovascular disease, taking Chantix may increase your risk of certain cardiovascular adverse events. Contact your healthcare professional if you experience new or worsening symptoms of cardiovascular disease while taking Chantix, for example: Shortness of breath or trouble breathing.
Starting CHANTIX before your quit date gives CHANTIX time to build up in your body. You can keep smoking during this time. Take CHANTIX exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. CHANTIX comes as a white tablet (0.5 mg) and a blue tablet (1 mg).
CHANTIX attaches to nicotine receptors in the brain, so that nicotine can't. With CHANTIX, dopamine is still released, but less so than with nicotine. It is believed that these actions are how CHANTIX may help you quit smoking.
Who should not take Champix? In general Champix is considered to be a safe medication for most people. Some caution should be taken in certain patients, particularly those with mental health problems.
