Chantix, the brand name of the medication varenicline, helps many people successfully quit smoking. Although the medication can produce undesirable side effects, it is often more effective to use this medication than trying to quit cold turkey. Patients interested in Chantix should thoroughly discuss all prescribing information before taking the medication.
Dosage
Doctors typically instruct patients to begin taking Chantix approximately one week before they plan to quick smoking. Although the dosage can vary depending upon individual circumstances, many people begin taking 0.5 mg once daily on the first three days and 0.5 mg twice daily for the rest of that week. The dosage typically increases to 1 mg twice daily for the continuing weeks for a total of 12 weeks. Chantix prescribing information recommends an addition 12 weeks of treatment to increase the likelihood of long-term abstinence from smoking.
Adverse Reactions
Nausea, abnormal dreams, flatulence, constipation and vomiting are the most common side effects of Chantix. In clinical studies, these side effects occurred at twice the rate of placebo-treated patients and occurred in more than 5 percent of people taking the medication, according to Chantix prescribing information.
Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Suicide
Some people experience a change in mental state or behavior while taking Chantix. This may include depression, mania, psychosis, paranoia, hallucinations, homicidal thoughts, agitation, hostility, anxiety and panic. It also may include suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts. People with mental illness may find their condition worsened while taking Chantix. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration urges patients to discuss their history of psychiatric illness before taking this medication. All people who experience a change in mental state or behavior while taking Chantix require immediate medical attention.
Considerations
People who use other smoking cessation products while taking Chantix may increase the likelihood of adverse reactions. All prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as herbal supplements and vitamins, should be reported to a doctor before taking this medication.
Pregnancy and Breast Feeding
Chantix is designated as a pregnancy category C drug, which means there are no adequate studies to show if the medication can harm an unborn baby. Pregnant women should talk to their doctor to determine if the potential benefits of Chantix outweigh the risks. It is also not known whether Chantix passes through the breast milk, but nursing mothers are generally advised not to use this medication, according to the Chantix prescribing information.
Warnings and Precautions
Some people may experience dangerous complications when taking Chantix. These reactions included hypersensitivity, angioedema and serious skin reactions, all of which can be life-threatening. People who notice a skin rash or experience swelling of the face, mouth, neck or extremities should seek medical attention immediately. Accidental injuries also have occurred, so people should not drive a car or operate heavy machinery until they know how Chantix will affect them.
