Chantix (Varenicline)

Do's

• Set a quit date before starting treatment with Chantix. 
• Begin taking varenicline as directed by your healthcare provider, 1 to 2 weeks before the quit date.  
• Take one 0.5-milligram tablet once a day for 3 days.  
• Increase to one 0.5-milligram tablet twice a day for 4 days. The dose is slowly increased to lessen the chance of side effects (such as nausea, unusual dreams). It is okay to smoke during this time. 
• Stop smoking on the quit date.   
• Take the dose prescribed by your healthcare provider twice a day for the rest of the treatment period (usually 12 weeks).   
• Initiating varenicline treatment before selecting a quit-smoking date is another approach to its utilization. 
• Start with the 0.5-milligram tablets and increase the dose as directed by your healthcare provider.  
• Pick a date to quit smoking that is between days 8 and 35 of treatment. Stop smoking on the chosen date.  
• Take the dose prescribed by your healthcare provider for the rest of the treatment period. 
• Following your healthcare provider's guidance, commence taking this medication if you're unable to choose a quit date, gradually reducing smoking with the goal of quitting by the end of your treatment. 
• Follow your healthcare provider’s directions carefully and reduce smoking as directed.  
• Adhere closely to the instructions on the dosing package if this medication is provided in such a form (starting pack or continuing pack), noting the varying strengths contained within each pack. 
• Take this medication by mouth after eating food and with a full glass of water.   
• Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.  
• Tell your healthcare provider if you continue to smoke after a few weeks of treatment. 
• Discuss with your healthcare provider if you are unable to quit smoking after 12 weeks of treatment. If successful and cigarette-free after 12 weeks, your healthcare provider may recommend another 12 weeks of treatment with varenicline. 
• Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice and information about the specific dosage and administration of Chantix based on your individual circumstances.   

Don'ts

• Don't increase the dose of Chantix or take it more frequently than prescribed.
• The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.   

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Abnormal dreams
• Constipation
• Gas
• Unusual Taste
• Abnormal Dreams
• Vomiting

Serious Side Effects:

• Mood or behavior changes (e.g., depression, agitation, aggression, suicidal thoughts).
• Chest pain or pressure, pain spreading to your jaw or shoulder.
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing).

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking chantix,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Inform your healthcare provider of any allergies to varenicline or other ingredients before starting Chantix.

Discuss your medical history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have:

• Kidney disease
• Mental/mood disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression)
• Heart/blood vessel disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, stroke)
• History of seizures

Chantix may cause dizziness, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, or difficulty concentrating. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you understand how this medication affects you. Alcohol and marijuana can worsen these side effects. Limit or avoid their use while taking Chantix. Chantix may increase sensitivity to alcohol, leading to increased drunkenness, unusual behavior, and memory loss. Limit alcoholic beverages and be aware of how alcohol affects you. Chantix should only be used during pregnancy if clearly needed. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding as it is unknown if Chantix passes into breast milk.