1. Chantix Gives Smokers an Option to Stop
Chantix, also known as varenicline, is an oral prescription drug manufactured by Pfizer to aid in smoking cessation in adults. It accomplishes this by reducing the urge to smoke, according to the manufacturer. It contains no nicotine. Instead, the manufacturer believes that Chantix works by blocking nicotine to certain receptors.
2. Slow but Steady
Pfizer boasts that 44 percent of people in a clinical trial quit smoking after 12 weeks of using Chantix. In the same study, only 18 percent who took a placebo quit. Smokers reportedly "slip up" sometimes while taking Chantix but are encouraged to keep taking the medication and get back on track. Smokers face both a physical addiction and a lifestyle change when they attempt to quit. As such, a support group is helpful for many in addition to Chantix.
3. The Negative Side Effects of Chantix
Some people taking Chantix report negative side effects such as suicidal thoughts, agitation and/or depression. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects. People who have a history of depression or other mental health problems should talk with their doctor before taking this drug. Other Chantix side effects are nausea, gas, vomiting and constipation. Some people have trouble sleeping due to vivid or strange dreams. These side effects should go away as you take the drug. If they don't, call your doctor.
4. Your Doctor Should Know
Don't take Chantix with other smoking cessation products. Talk to your doctor about any health problems you have so that he can adjust the Chantix dosage if necessary. Medications for asthma, blood thinners or insulin may not work the same after you've quit smoking, so discuss any possible dosage changes with your doctor. As with all medications, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant while taking Chantix.
5. Chantix Warning
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is keeping a close eye on Chantix for patients who have had erratic behavior or suicidal thoughts. It is difficult to know whether the medication is the sole cause of some of these symptoms, because people who are using Chantix are also experiencing smoking cessation withdrawal. The FDA also notes that some people report extreme drowsiness that affects their ability to drive or operate machinery. You should talk with your doctor if you experience any changes in your mood or behavior while taking Chantix.
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