Champix is one of the trade names for the generic compound varenicline, which is also marketed as Chantix. MediResource notes that this smoking cessation aid is often combined with formal smoking cessation education and counseling for smokers. Patient UK reports that Champix works by altering the way the body processes nicotine, and blocking brain receptors. In addition to standard side effects of nicotine withdrawal, Champix also has some rare side effects.
Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions to Champix are considered rare but serious, notes Drugs.com. Signs of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, mouth, or face, hives, itchiness and rashes. In the rarest cases, MediResource reports that individuals may experience skin changes as a part of their allergic reactions to Champix.
Changes in Mood
Champix use has been linked to changes in patient moods, notes Patient UK. Though the drug was released without warnings about this potential side effect, rare but notable cases have prompted the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to release new warnings about the need for emotional health monitoring for patients taking Champix. Drugs.com notes that a previous history of mood swings was irrelevant when it came to the likelihood of experiencing mood shifts on Champix based on clinical trials.
Depression
MediResource notes that depression is a rare side effect of Champix use. The symptoms can be mild, such as depressive thoughts, or the side effect can cross over into full-blown depression, notes the FDA and Drugs.com. Health Advisory and Advanced Warning postings have been created in Canada, the U.K. and the U.S. for Champix's potential to cause depression, especially in patients taking the medication who have a history of depression or other related mood disorders such as schizophrenia.
Suicidal Thoughts
Suicidal thoughts and tendencies have developed in some patients taking Champix, notes Drugs.com and the FDA. This is considered to be a rare but serious side effect, as in extreme cases patients have actually killed themselves as a result of their Champix experiences. This side effect can only be mitigated through a close watch on any suicidal thoughts while on Champix and a prompt outreach effort when such thoughts are experienced.
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