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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Varenicline is utilized in conjunction with education and counseling to assist individuals in quitting smoking. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as smoking cessation aids. Its mechanism of action involves blocking the pleasurable effects of nicotine derived from smoking on the brain.
Uses and Dosage
Varenicline is administered as a tablet to be taken orally. Initially, it is usually taken once a day and then twice a day in the morning and evening. Take varenicline with a full glass of water (8 ounces [240 mL]) after eating. Be consistent with the timing, and follow the instructions on your prescription label meticulously.
Adhere to the prescribed dosage without taking more or less or altering the frequency of administration.
Your doctor is likely to initiate your treatment with a low dose of varenicline and progressively increase it over the first week.
There are three approaches to using varenicline to aid in quitting smoking:
Set a Quit Date: Choose a date to quit smoking and commence varenicline one week before that date. Smoking can continue during the initial week of varenicline treatment, but the goal is to cease smoking on the predetermined quit date.
Immediate Quit: Start taking varenicline and quit smoking between 8 and 35 days after starting treatment.
Gradual Quit: If sudden cessation is challenging or undesirable, start varenicline and gradually reduce smoking over 12 weeks. For weeks 1–4, aim to smoke only half of your usual daily cigarettes. For weeks 5–8, aim for one-quarter of your starting daily number. Continue reducing until you quit completely by the end of 12 weeks.
It may take several weeks to experience the full benefits of varenicline, and occasional slips where you smoke may occur. If this happens, continue taking varenicline and strive to quit smoking.
Typically, the varenicline regimen spans 12 weeks. If you successfully quit smoking at the end of this period, your doctor may recommend an additional 12 weeks of treatment to help prevent relapse.
If smoking cessation is not achieved by the end of 12 weeks, consult your doctor to understand the challenges and develop a plan for another attempt to quit.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- nausea
- constipation
- diarrhea
- gas
- abdominal pain
- vomiting
- heartburn
- bad taste in the mouth
- dry mouth
- increased or decreased appetite
- toothache
- trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
- unusual dreams or nightmares
- headache
- lack of energy
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, gums, eyes, neck, hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- rash
- swollen, red, peeling, or blistering skin
- blisters in the mouth
- pain, squeezing, or pressure in the chest
- pain or discomfort in one or both arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach
- shortness of breath
- sweating
- nausea, vomiting, or lightheadedness with chest pain
- slow or difficult speech
- sudden weakness or numbness of an arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
- calf pain while walking
- seizures
- sleepwalking
Caution
- Before initiating varenicline, communicate any allergies you may have to your doctor or pharmacist, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.
- Provide details about your medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, mental/mood disorders, or heart/blood vessel disease. Disclose any history of seizures.
- Varenicline can cause dizziness, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, or difficulty concentrating. The effects can be exacerbated by alcohol or marijuana. Refrain from activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do them safely.
- Varenicline may heighten sensitivity to alcohol, leading to increased drunkenness, unusual behavior, or impaired memory. Limit alcoholic beverages and be mindful of how alcohol affects you while taking this medication.
- For pregnant individuals, varenicline should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It’s unclear whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding to evaluate potential risks.
Form and Strength
Chantix Continuing Pack is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Chantix Continuing Pack tablet:
- 1 mg
- varenicline tablet:
- 1 mg
FAQ
How long does it take Chantix to start working?
Chantix starts to lessen your urge to smoke after about a week.
Can I use Chantix with the nicotine patch?
This might not be the best idea. If you use Chantix with a nicotine patch, you might be more likely to experience side effects like nausea, trouble sleeping, and constipation, especially if you also drink heavily.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/chantix/what-is#faqs
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/varenicline-oral-route/proper-use/drg-20068324?p=1
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-148320/chantix-continuing-month-pak-oral/details
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a606024.html
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/chantix-continuing-month-pak.html
