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Varenicline (Champix®)

Varenicline (Champix®) is one of two prescription medications covered under the BC Smoking Cessation program.

Varenicline is only available by prescription from your doctor. It blocks the effects of nicotine and reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms. If you start smoking again while you are taking the medicine, you won't feel as satisfied. This improves your chances of quitting.

READ HEALTH CANADA ADVSIORY

Health Canada is reviewing stop-smoking drug Champix (varenicline tartrate) and potential risk of heart problems in patients with heart disease (June 27, 2011).

Start taking varenicline two weeks before you quit smoking. This builds up the level of medicine in your body.

Advantages of taking varenicline

  • It is easy to use.  You simply take a pill once or twice a day.
  • It does not contain nicotine, which some people find important.
  • It doubles or triples your chances of quitting successfully.

Warnings & Precautions

Do not use varenicline if one of the following applies to you:

  • have an allergy to varenicline
  • currently using NRT. The combination of taking both does not increase your chance of quitting and increases the likelihood of experiencing side effects.
  • less than 18 years old
  • You are pregnant

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist about whether varenicline is right for you if one of the following applies to you:

  • depression or other mental health problems
  • breast-feeding
  • kidney problems
  • currently taking medications such as insulin, theophylline, or warfarin

Stop taking varenicline and speak to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • depressed mood
  • agitation
  • changes in behaviour that are not typical
  • suicidal thoughts or behaviour
  • thoughts of harming yourself or others

How to use varenicline (Talk to your doctor)

  • Varenicline is available as a pill that you take by mouth. You will need a prescription from your doctor.
  • Start taking varenicline two weeks before you quit smoking.
  • Continue to smoke as usual while taking varenicline until your quit date.
  • The recommended dose of varenicline to help you quit smoking is:
    • Days 1-3: take one 0.5mg tablet once a day.
    • Days 4-7: take one 0.5mg tablet twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.
    • Day 8 to the end of treatment: take one 1mg tablet twice a day, once in the morning and once at night
  • Take varenicline after eating and with a full glass of water.

Common side effects of using varenicline

  • nausea and vomiting
  • gas and constipation
  • insomnia and abnormal dreams
  • headache
  • mood & behavioural change, suicidal thoughts (report to Doctor immediately)