Champix (varenicline)--which is marketed under the brand name Chantix in the United States--is a prescription medication indicated to help patients stop smoking cigarettes. This medication limits the effect of nicotine on the brain, which can help reduce nicotine cravings or withdrawal symptoms in patients. Be sure to discuss Champix medication side effects with your doctor before you begin treatment.
Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior
Use of Champix is associated with an increased risk of developing suicidal thoughts or behavior, warn health officials at Medline Plus, an informational medical website provided as a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Such side effects may occur immediately after or several weeks following the onset of Champix treatment. Additional mood-related side effects, such as aggression, depression, anxiety, restlessness, hallucinations, confusion or mania, can also occur during Champix use. Stop taking this medication and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these severe side effects.
Stomach Upset
You can develop mild to moderate stomach upset as a side effect of Champix treatment. Symptoms of stomach upset typically arise during the first week of treatment and can include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, gas or discomfort, explains the Better Health Channel, a medical website established by the Australian government. Certain patients may also experience constipation or dry mouth sensations after taking a dose of Champix. You can limit the occurrence of these stomach-related side effects by taking Champix after eating a small meal or snack. Talk with your doctor if these side effects persist or worsen during treatment.
Difficulty Sleeping
Sleeping difficulties can arise as a side effect of Champix treatment in certain patients. You may experience strange or disturbing dreams that cause you to wake up frequently throughout the night, warns Drugs.com, a peer-reviewed consumer drug information website. Sensations of restlessness or nervousness can make it difficult for you to fall asleep or stay asleep during the night. Alternatively, certain patients taking Champix experience increased sleepiness or fatigue during treatment. These side effects can affect your ability to remain focused during the day and may negatively impact your productivity at work or school.
Appetite and Taste Changes
Champix can cause appetite and taste changes to occur in certain patients. Health officials at Medline Plus explain that you can develop an unpleasant or bad taste within your mouth, which may contribute to symptoms of stomach upset. You may also notice an increase in your appetite, which can cause you to eat more than usual during the day.
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