Varenicline

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Champix

Drug group:

Smoking cessation aid

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Varenicline is an effective aid to stopping smoking in adults – it seems to be more effective than nicotine replacement therapy or bupropion.

How does it work?

It works in a similar way to nicotine in the body and helps reduce tobacco cravings.

How should it be used?

• Start treatment 1–2 weeks before your ‘target stop date’ - a pre-determined date on which you will stop smoking
• Continue for a period of 12 weeks in total
• The course may be repeated if you are at risk of relapsing
• Take your doses at the same time every day

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Starter pack: initially 0.5mg once daily for 3 days, increased to 0.5mg 2xdaily for 4 days or until ‘target stop date’
• Maintenance course: 1mg 2x daily for 11 weeks (reduce to 0.5mg 2xdaily if higher dose not tolerated)

How quickly will it start to work?

3–4 hours but may take weeks for full effect  
                       

How long will the effects last?

24 hours                  

When should I stop using it?

The drug can be stopped safely when no longer needed, but stopping before the course is complete increases your chances of relapse.  

Is it safe for prolonged use?

A course of 12 weeks is usually sufficient, but if necessary it can be repeated in those who are likely to relapse. Monitor for signs of depression.         

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: headache, nausea, vomiting, tiredness, sleepiness, insomnia, strange dreams
• Less common: agitation, hallucinations, depression
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: suicidal thoughts

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: history of psychiatric problems, head injury, history of seizures/epilepsy, severe kidney disease, current/planned pregnancy
• Other medicines: Stopping smoking may alter the effects of some drugs, including insulin/theophylline/warfarin
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Avoid, safety not established
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: No special problems
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness and sleepiness
• Alcohol: Avoid, enhanced sedative effects