Varenicline is a medication marketed as Chantix in the USA. It can help many smokers in their smoking cessation efforts. However, not all patients experience benefits from Chantix. Prescribers and consumer should be cognizant of the potential effects reported with the medication to ensure it is given to appropriate candidates.
Nausea and Vomiting
Chantix users most commonly report nausea as a side effect. According to Pfizer, up to 40% of patients in a one-year pilot clinical trial listed nausea. It was a passing effect in some yet in others the nausea was ongoing. Increase the dose gradually as the manufacturer recommends, because the nausea effect coincides with the dosage.
According to the prescribing information, patients who increased the dose gradually experienced less adverse effects that those that start therapy at the full dose. Additionally, the manufacturer recommends taking doses with a full meal and full glass of water as this was found to alleviate some of the reports of nausea in the trials. If patients experience intolerable nausea consider a dose reduction.
Skin reactions
Varenicline can cause serious skin complications. ccording to the manufacturer, Pfizer, rash is the most common skin related event occurring in 3% of patients. More serious skin conditions, including Steven-Johnson syndrome and Erythema multiforme, have also been reported. According to the Mayo Clinic, Steven Johnson's syndrome is a condition where the skin and mucous membranes react severely to a medication or compound. This can result in hospitalization and in some cases death.
Nervous System Complications
Multiple nervous system complications have been reported, the most common include abnormal dreams, headache and insomnia. Excessive drowsiness called somnolence occurs as well. Researchers excluded individuals taking antidepressants or anti-psychotics from the initial Chantix clinical trials. Before starting a new medication, it is important to discuss the potential interactions and risks involved with taking varenicline with your health care provider.
FDA Suicide Warnings
Suicide, suicidal thoughts and behaviors have been reported, and the US Food and Drug Administration, FDA, recently required the addition of a “black box warning” for varenicline. Black boxes serve as a mandatory warning section the FDA requires the manufacturer to add to a product's literature. The exact warning in the prescribing information includes reports of suicide and suicidal thoughts. Patient should immediately contact their doctor to report any “agitation, hostility, depressed mood, or changes in behavior or thinking that are not typical.”
