Chantix, also known as Champix, is the brand name for varenicline, a generic prescription drug used to help individuals older than 18 stop smoking. Chantix increases the likelihood of smoking cessation by blocking the binding of nicotine to nicotine receptors in the brain. This reduces the effects of nicotine in activating the dopamine reward system. Specifically, the dopamine system produces pleasurable sensations; thus, smoking behavior may cease if the reward effects are eliminated. This medication, however, is associated with several physical effects.
Gastrointestinal Distress
Gastrointestinal side effects are commonly experienced with this medication. Indeed, Pfizer, the drug's manufacturer, states that nausea, the most common adverse reaction, occurred in up to 30 percent of individuals taking the recommended dose during clinical trials. Indigestion with abdominal discomfort and excess gas are also possible physical side effects of Chantix. Other related gastrointestinal effects include constipation, dry mouth or metallic taste in mouth, and vomiting. Drugs.com explains that up to 4 percent of clinical trial participants reported noticing an increase in appetite or gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. These physical effects are usually temporary as the body adjusts to the drug, and tend to resolve on their own. However, the prescribing physician should be notified if any of these side effects persist or become worrisome.
Insomnia and Fatigue
Problems with sleeping also frequently occur in individuals starting this medication: eMedTV.com states that up to 19 percent of participants reported insomnia during the clinical trials. While beginning this medication, users may also experience strange dreams as well as nightmares: up to 13 percent of participants complained of having abnormal dreams during the drug trials. According to Drugs.com, patients on Chantix may experience early awakening.
Fatigue related to sleeping difficulties is another physical effect that may manifest. If such sleep or fatigue adverse effects continue or worsen, patients need to contact the prescribing physician so that the drug regimen can be re-evaluated.
Headaches
Pfizer indicates that up to 19 percent of participants reported headaches during clinical trials of this medication. Additionally, eMedTV.com notes that up to 7 percent of trial participants became physically lethargic or drowsy. Lying down periodically may help to alleviate these adverse symptoms.
Dyspnea
Drugs.com states that between 1 to 7 percent of trial participants reported upper respiratory cold-like symptoms as well as dyspnea, or shortness of breath. Patients need to contact a doctor if pulmonary problems persist or worsen.
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