Varenicline

Uses of Varenicline

Varenicline is a medication that assists individuals as they quit their smoking habit. It is part of a drug classification called smoking cessation aids. Doctors prescribe this medicine along with counselling support from healthcare professionals. Varenicline is available under the trade names Chantix, Champix, and Tyrvaya.

Discontinuing tobacco smoking can be very challenging. That’s why Varenicline functions by blocking the pleasurable effects of nicotine on the brain. It also inhibits the activation of dopamine, which any tobacco products produce. Varenicline lessens the withdrawal syndrome that develops alongside the process of cessation.

Warning and Precautions

Once you quit smoking, you will experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms include depression, frustration, irritation, and restless sensation. If you feel agitated and aggressive during your treatment with Varenicline, stop taking this medicine and contact your healthcare professional.

Before receiving a Varenicline prescription, tell your healthcare professional if you experience the following:

• Mental disorder
• Convulsion
• Kidney problem
• Heart disease
• Heavy alcohol drinker

If you have the following conditions previously, you may not use Varenicline.

• Allergic reaction
• Skin infections

Dosage

Here is the detailed dosage for Varenicline treatment.

• From day one to three, you only need to take 0.5 mg of Varenicline once per day.
• From day four to seven, you will take the same amount of dosage, but twice per day.
• From day eight until the end of your treatment, your dosage will increase to 1 mg of Varenicline twice per day.

Note: Your Varenicline treatment will have 12 weeks of therapy duration. Report your condition to your healthcare professional immediately if you experience the severe side effects of this medicine.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Insomnia
• Joint pain
• Lack of strength
• Stiffness of the muscles

Severe Side Effects:

• Seizure
• Thoughts about suicide
• Trouble sleeping
• Mental disorder
• Symptoms of heart attack
• Dark-colored urine
• Severe stomachache
• Heartburn
• Severe muscle pain
• Irregular heartbeat