Chantix Warnings

Chantix, a brand of varenicline, is a prescription medication indicated to help adults over age 18 to quit smoking. Chantix is a non-nicotine medication that works in two ways. It binds with nicotine receptors in the brain and blocks nicotine from binding. Also, it appears that Chantix will also activate the nicotine receptors. When nicotine binds in the brain, another chemical, dopamine, is released. Chantix will cause a reduced release of this chemical. This will allow the body to receive a similar effect but at a reduced level.

Mental Health Problems

The Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, requires a black box warning on Chantix as of July 1, 2009, as stated on its official website. The warning notes a risk of serious adverse events including behavior changes, depressed mood, suicidal thoughts and hostility. Agitation, anxiety, panic, aggression, anger, mania and hallucinations may also be present. While some people manifest these symptoms when they start taking Chantix, others have experienced them after a longer use of the medication. These effects may also manifest when stopping the medication. It is important to tell your health care provider about your medical history, especially regarding depression or other mental disorders. It is typical for symptoms of other mental disorders to worsen during the administration of Chantix.

Skin Reactions

Serious skin reactions may present in individuals taking Chantix. Rash, swelling, redness and peeling of the skin are among these reactions, some of which can be life-threatening. Allergic reactions associated with Chantix may be so severe as to also be life-threatening. Swelling of the face, mouth and throat are signs of a serious allergic reaction. The throat may swell to the point of not allowing air into the lungs. Blisters that appear on the mouth or skin and then peel off have also been reported. These effects require immediate medical help.

Use of Chantix with Nicotine

Chantix is not intended to be used in combination with other smoking cessation aids. The "Drug Information Handbook" states that adverse events are higher in individuals who use Chantix with nicotine replacement therapy.

Other Precautions

In people with renal dysfunction, the dose of Chantix needs to be adjusted. The elderly have decreased renal function due to normal aging, and some may need a lower dose of Chantix. Taking Chantix during pregnancy does not seem to have the potential effects of developing malformation. Effects that are seen include decreased fertility, decreased fetal weight and increased excitability in the baby, according to Chantixpharma.com. In cases where not enough evidence exists, Chantix may be prescribed to pregnant women only if the benefit outweighs the risk.