Chantix (Varenicline)

What is Chantix?

Chantix falls under the class of medications known as Smoking Cessation Drugs.

What is Chantix used for?

Chantix is used by people who want to give up smoking, and is accompanied with behavior amendment and counseling of the smoker.

How does Chantix work?

Chantix, by binding itself to the nicotine receptors in the brain of a person, does not allow smoking to render a complete effect on him.

How to use Chantix

Chantix should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Thus, carefully follow all instructions given on the prescription label.

Set up a quit date for yourself. This is the date when you decide not to smoke any further. After that, begin with the Chantix medicines one week before the set date. This will help you improve and successfully give up smoking, gradually.

The dosage of Chantix is steadily increased, according to its effect on the patient. Also, the tablets should be taken after the meals, with a full glass of water.

Chantix warnings and precautions

The family and near-and-dear ones of the patient should be careful to notice any mood swings or a change in the behavior of the patient after he has taken the medicine. If they do witness a change, they must inform the doctor about the same.

While you are on the medication of Chantix, you always need to be very cautious, especially while you are driving. This is because Chantix can cause drowsiness.

Do not miss your regular medical check-ups with the doctor. This will help him modify and adjust your Chantix dosage accordingly. Kidney functions are particularly to be checked during this medication.

Chantix should be stored at room temperature, afar heat and moisture.

What do I do if I have missed a Chantix dose?

If you have missed your Chantix dose you should take it just as soon as you remember, but only after your meal. Yet, if it is already time for the next dose, do not take the missed one.

What do I do if I have taken a Chantix overdose?

If you have taken a Chantix overdose you should immediately consult your doctor.

Chantix interactions

Before starting with the drug, make sure that your doctor is informed about all other medications that you are on. These can include medicines of insulin, blood thinners like warfarin, or medicines like Uniphyl, Respbid, Theobid, Theoclear and Theo-Dur. They may interact with Chantix. Thus, they shouldn’t be taken concurrently.

Also, inform your doctor if you are already taking some medicinal supplements like those of vitamins, minerals, herbal products, or other drugs. They might interact with Chantix.

Chantix side effects

• If the consumption of Chantix results in any kind of allergy, like hives, breathing trouble, swelling on face or lips, then consult the doctor without delay.
• Consumption of this drug might also result in mood swings or change in behavior, agitation, depression, or other thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. If you experience any such thing, stop taking the pills and consult your doctor.
• There can be other serious side-effects of this drug, like sore throat, fever, headache, etc. They can be harmful offshoots, and if seen after taking Chantix, one must consult his or her doctor.
• Harsh skin rash can also be one of the side-effects of Chantix tablets. Even though they appear to be mild on their first stages, yet one should not ignore them, and consult the doctor as soon as possible.
• Some other minor side-effects of Chantix can be nausea, vomiting, pain in stomach, indigestion, constipation, gas, weakness, fatigue, distasteful mouth, headache, insomnia, and strange dreams. One should call the doctor to consult.