Chantix is a non-steroidal, non-nicotine prescription medicine given to people who want to stop the habit of smoking. Unlike other smoking cessation drugs that contain minute amounts of nicotine to subtly assist the person on nicotine withdrawal, Chantix does not contain any nicotine at all. It works by targeting nicotine receptors in the brain that is responsible to the sensation brought by nicotine. When this happens, the receptors will release a reduced amount of dopamine compared to nicotine, thereby giving the body enough to work on, without actually needing nicotine for it.
This significantly reduces the cravings felt by the patient as well as decreases the flavor and pleasure given by tobacco or cigarettes should the patient tries to use them again. This way, smoking addiction may be lessened if not completely left out.

•    Chantix should be taken 1 week before totally ceasing smoking to give the body enough time to get acclimatized to the drug. This will allow sufficient amount of Chantix to pile up and reach enough levels in the body.
•    Smokers are allowed to still smoke 1 week within the treatment period but should stop at once it reaches the 8th day of treatment.
•    Always inform your physician if you are allergic to varenicline or any of its components.
•    Tell your doctor if you have experienced withdrawal symptoms on previous attempts to stop smoking.
•    Avoid driving a car or operate heavy machineries if taking Chantix as it is known to make you drowsy and sleepy and it can alter concentration or totally lose consciousness.
•    Chantix is more effective if included in the program combined with people support and doctor’s advice.

Before taking Chantix, check with your doctor especially if you previously have or is currently suffering from the following:
•    Heart disease
•    Circulation problem
•    Kidney disease
•    Dialysis
•    Depression
•    History Mental Illness
•    Pregnant
•    Breastfeeding

The recommended dose is of 1 mg taken twice/day. Never take a larger amount or smaller amount or alter the medication direction given by the doctor.
It is recommended to take low dosage at first and gradually increase as the body gets accustomed to it. The entire treatment duration could last for 12 weeks. The doctor will then re-assess your condition and could order to stop the treatment if totally treated or order another round of treatment if not totally cured.
This product should not be used by pregnant women or in children for the effects on these two categories have not yet been tested.
Important notice: Always consult with a doctor before starting treatment with Chantix. Check the leaflet inside for instructions.

Missed doses are considered missed. Leave it and take the next scheduled dosage. Do not overdose to compensate for the missed one. If you remember and still with enough time before the next one, take it, if not then proceed with your regular dosing schedule.

During unexpected and emergency situations, Call for help right away and notify your physician for such matter. You may contact a poison control center or have you taken to the nearest hospital for abrupt treatment; if the person is passed out and not breathing, call 911 or your local emergency response team.

•    Avoid taking other medications when under treatment with Chantix. It is known to cause impaired thinking or reactions and may cause mood and behavioral changes especially on the onset of the program.
•    You are also advised to be cautious when working or doing something that requires alertness on your part, as Chantix is known to make you drowsy.

Quitting smoking usually causes anxiety, nervousness, excessive binging, mild depression.
Chantix can cause nausea, but this sensation is not serious and usually tends to disappear at the end of the treatment.
Other known side effects include:
•    Heartburn
•    Insomnia
•    Headache
•    Changes in appetite
•    Hoarseness of voice
•    Blisters in mouth
•    Blisters in skin
•    Gas and flatulence
•    Slow or difficult speech

Drug interactions have the tendency to change the effectiveness of either medicine.
It is a must to tell your doctor if you are taking medications like:
•    Insulin
•    Warfarin
•    Coumadin
•    Jantoven
•    Theophylline