Why is this medication prescribed?

Varenicline is a medication prescribed to help people quit smoking. It is sold under the brand name Chantix in the United States and Champix in other countries. Varenicline is a smoking cessation aid that works by reducing withdrawal symptoms and blocking the pleasurable effects of nicotine from smoking.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Varenicline is typically used:

• Start with a Set Quit Date: Before beginning treatment with Varenicline, it is recommended to choose a quit date. This is the date on which you will stop smoking.
• Gradual Dosing:
  • Days 1 to 3: Start with a lower dose. Take one 0.5 mg tablet once daily.
  • Days 4 to 7: Increase the dose. Take one 0.5 mg tablet twice daily.
  • After Day 7: Continue with the maintenance dose of 1 mg twice daily.
• Continue Treatment: It is usually recommended to use Varenicline for a total of 12 weeks. However, in some cases, the healthcare provider may suggest an additional 12 weeks of treatment to increase the chances of long-term smoking cessation.
• Monitoring and Adjustments: It is important to monitor your progress and discuss any difficulties or side effects with your healthcare provider. They may make adjustments to your treatment plan if necessary.
• Take with Food and Full Glass of Water: Varenicline can be taken with or without food. It is generally recommended to take the medication with a full glass of water.
• Abrupt Smoking Cessation: It’s important to completely stop smoking on the set quit date, even if you haven’t reached the full dose of Varenicline.
• Possible Side Effects: Common side effects may include nausea, insomnia, abnormal dreams, and headache. If you experience severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider.
• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and do not adjust the dose or stop taking the medication without consulting them.

It’s crucial to note that while Varenicline can be an effective aid in quitting smoking, it is not suitable for everyone, and its use should be discussed with a healthcare professional. They will consider individual health factors and provide guidance on the most appropriate approach to quitting smoking.

Other uses for this medicine

Varenicline is primarily prescribed for smoking cessation, but it’s important to note that its use for other purposes is not typical, as it has not been widely studied for alternative medical conditions. The medication specifically targets the nicotine receptors in the brain, making it effective for smoking cessation but not necessarily for other conditions.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Varenicline, here are some important considerations:

• Psychiatric Symptoms: Varenicline has been associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms, including changes in behavior, agitation, depressed mood, suicidal ideation, and attempted suicide. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, contact a healthcare provider immediately.
• Monitoring Mental Health: Individuals with a history of psychiatric illness should be closely monitored while taking Varenicline. Inform your healthcare provider about any history of mental health issues before starting the medication.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Varenicline may cause dizziness and impair your ability to concentrate. Caution is advised when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol Use: Limit alcohol intake while taking Varenicline, as alcohol may increase the risk of certain side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of Varenicline during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
• Kidney Function: Adjustments to the dosage of Varenicline may be necessary for individuals with severe kidney impairment. Inform your healthcare provider about any kidney problems.
• Other Medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, as interactions with other drugs can occur.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies, especially to Varenicline or any of its components.
• Medical Conditions: Provide your healthcare provider with a comprehensive medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, to ensure that Varenicline is a safe and appropriate option for you.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, and do not hesitate to contact them if you have any concerns or experience unexpected side effects while taking Varenicline. Individual responses to medications can vary, and your healthcare provider can provide guidance based on your specific health profile.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are generally no specific dietary restrictions associated with Varenicline. However, taking the medication with food and a full glass of water is recommended to minimize the risk of nausea, which is a common side effect.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Varenicline:

• Within the Same Day: If you remember later in the day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the scheduled time.
• Next Day: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Resume your regular dosing schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Varenicline, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may experience side effects that are not listed. Common side effects of Varenicline include:

• Nausea: This is one of the most common side effects. Taking Varenicline with food and a full glass of water can help reduce nausea.
• Insomnia (Difficulty Sleeping): Some individuals may experience difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns.
• Abnormal Dreams: Varenicline can cause vivid or abnormal dreams in some people.
• Headache: Headaches are a reported side effect for some individuals.
• Increased Appetite: Some people may notice an increase in appetite.
• Changes in Taste: A metallic or unusual taste in the mouth has been reported by some users.

Less common, but potentially serious, side effects include:

• Mood and Behavior Changes: Varenicline has been associated with changes in mood, including agitation, depression, and suicidal thoughts. It’s important to monitor for any unusual behavior and report it to a healthcare provider.
• Allergic Reactions: Although rare, allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing have been reported. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Cardiovascular Events: Some studies have suggested a possible increased risk of cardiovascular events in individuals using Varenicline, particularly those with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider.

It’s crucial to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, if you have a history of psychiatric conditions or other health concerns, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting Varenicline.

Remember that the decision to use Varenicline should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional who can assess your individual health situation and provide guidance on the most appropriate smoking cessation approach for you. If you are taking Varenicline and experience any severe or persistent side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Varenicline:

• Room Temperature: Store Varenicline at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
• Keep Container Closed: Keep the medication in its original container, and make sure the container is tightly closed when not in use.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Varenicline in a location where it is inaccessible to children and pets.
• Avoid Bathroom Storage: It’s generally advised not to store medications in the bathroom due to the humidity and temperature changes.

Disposal of Varenicline:

• Follow Local Regulations: Dispose of unused or expired medications in accordance with local regulations. Many communities have specific programs or guidelines for medication disposal.
• Do Not Flush: Do not flush medications down the toilet unless specifically instructed to do so. Flushing medications can contribute to water pollution.
• Drug Take-Back Programs: Check if there are drug take-back programs in your area. These programs provide a safe way to dispose of medications.
• Ask Your Pharmacist: Your pharmacist can provide guidance on the proper disposal of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a Varenicline overdose may include nausea, vomiting, increased heart rate, and possibly seizures.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Follow-up: Attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider as scheduled to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care that you are taking Varenicline, including dentists and emergency room personnel.
• Dosing Schedule: Stick to the prescribed dosing schedule, and do not adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Combination Therapy: If you are using other smoking cessation aids or medications, discuss this with your healthcare provider to ensure they are compatible with Varenicline.
• Smoking Cessation Support: Varenicline is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive smoking cessation program. Consider combining medication with counseling or other support services.
• Individual Response: Individual responses to medications can vary. If you have concerns or experience unexpected side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and guidelines for the safe and effective use of Varenicline. If you have specific questions or concerns about your medication, consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.