Chantix, or varenicline, is a nicotinic agonist used as a smoking cessation aid. Chantix is a relatively new drug, but in the short time it has been available on the market, it has been found to have serious side effects. Persons already diagnosed with psychiatric illnesses are at high risk for potentially fatal side effects. All people choosing to use Chantix should carefully read the warnings and side effects contained in the product packaging
Heed These Warnings
Pfizer, the maker of Chantix, states on its website that Chantix has been shown to increase the incidence of depression, suicidal ideation, suicide attempt and suicide completion. Persons taking Chantix who have a psychiatric history should be closely monitored by health-care providers and family for increased signs and symptoms of depression, behavior changes, hostility and agitation. Should any of these symptoms manifest in the Chantix user, they should be immediately reported to a health-care provider.
Central Nervous System Side Effects
The PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook states that persons taking Chantix have experienced abnormal dreams, increased headaches, insomnia and a decrease in their attention spans. Less common side effects include generalized weakness, dizziness, fatigue and sensory disturbances such as altered sense of taste.
Cardiovascular Side Effects
Chest pain, peripheral edema (swelling of hands, feet and lower legs), facial flush and hypertension (high blood pressure) are the most common cardiovascular side effects. Any person experiencing sudden, sharp and sustained chest pain should seek immediate medical attention. Other side effects may be discussed with a physician for possible symptom management.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Patients most often complained of nausea in the initial stages of Chantix therapy. Abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, flatulence and vomiting may be managed by over-the-counter remedies. Patients experiencing vomiting or diarrhea for more than 24 hours should consult their physician, as possible electrolyte imbalances may occur.
Genitourinary Side Effects
Women taking Chantix have reported menstrual irregularities and polyuria (excessive urination).
Metabolic Side Effects
Chantix users have experienced both increased and decreased appetite as well as an increase in thirst.
Musculoskeletal Side Effects
Joint, back and muscle pain are common side effects reported by Chantix users. Muscle cramps have been noted as well. These side effects may be managed through the use of over-the-counter remedies; the health-care provider may also recommend prescribed symptom management.
Respiratory Side Effects
Users of Chantix have reported dyspnea (shortness of breath) and an increase in upper-respiratory infections or flu-like symptoms. These side effects should be discussed with a physician.
References
- "PDR Nurse's Drug Handbook 2010"; Thomson Reuters and Alexander Ivy; 2009
- "Mosby's 2010 Nursing Drug Reference"; Linda Skidmore-Roth; 2009
- Chantix: Side Effects and Safety
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