Using Chantix, the brand name of the medication varenicline, has helped many people stop smoking. However, taking this medication does not come without potential risks. Anyone interested in taking Chantix should speak to a doctor about the possible dangers of this medication before deciding if it is right choice for them.
Significance
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration or FDA has issued an advisory warning people about the dangers of potential mood and behavior changes while taking Chantix. These mood or behavior changes may include hostility, agitation, depressed mood and suicidal thoughts or actions. Since the person taking Chantix may remain unaware of these changes as they occur, the FDA warns patients to alert their family members and friends of these potential dangers so they can help monitor the patient. The FDA also warns that Chantix may cause a worsening of a current mental illness, even if it has been under control. It also may cause a previous mental illness to reoccur.
Time Frame
People generally take Chantix for a period of 12 weeks, but this doesn't necessarily mean the dangers of Chantix can only occur within this time frame. Some symptoms of mood and behavior changes take place weeks after stopping Chantix, explains the FDA in the Chantix medication guide.
Considerations
Chantix is classified as a Class C pregnancy medication, which means it could harm an unborn baby. While it remains unknown whether this medication passes through breast milk, there is a chance it could harm a nursing baby and breastfeeding mothers should talk to a doctor before using Chantix.
People with a history of mental illness, kidney problems and those that take insulin, asthma medications or blood thinners may prove more susceptible to some of the dangers of Chantix. These people should talk to a doctor to determine if another medication or smoking cessation product may be a better fit for them.
Misconceptions
Becoming drowsy because of Chantix is not something most people consider dangerous, but has potential risks.. Although the level of drowsiness people will experience while on Chantix will vary, some may experience drowsiness so intense that it interferes with their ability to stay alert, making it unsafe to drive or operate heavy machinery. In fact, the Federal Aviation Administration banned air-traffic controllers and pilots from using Chantix for this very reason. Therefore, people should take the drowsiness warnings seriously and be extremely cautious when doing anything that requires constant alertness until they understand how severe the drowsiness side effect will be for them.
Warning
Life-threatening medical conditions may also occur while taking Chantix. Serious skin reactions and allergic reactions can occur. Symptoms of a skin reaction include a rash, swelling, redness and peeling skin. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives and swelling of the throat, lips, face or tongue. Experiencing either of these reactions requires immediate medical help.
