Does Varenicline Help You Quit Smoking?

Varenicline (brand name Chantix) is an effective drug to help you quit smoking. It is specially designed to tackle nicotine addiction by acting on nicotine receptors in the brain.

Varenicline binds to nicotine receptors, which reduces the effects of nicotine if a person does smoke. It partially stimulates the receptors, which helps to reduce the craving for nicotine and relieve withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and mood swings.

If a person smokes while taking varenicline, the pleasure normally associated with nicotine consumption is greatly reduced.

Research shows that approximately 20-30% of users successfully quit smoking after 6-12 months, which is higher than with placebo or nicotine replacement therapies. Varenicline is more effective than nicotine replacement therapies such as patches or gum. It is at least as effective or even better than bupropion (Zyban).

Varenicline is usually prescribed for 12 weeks. If successful, treatment can sometimes be extended for another 12 weeks to reduce the chance of relapse. The dose is usually increased slowly.

Although varenicline is generally well tolerated, some people may experience side effects, including nausea, trouble sleeping, headache, dry mouth, and feelings of depression or irritability.

Source: https://www.farmacotherapeutischkompas.nl/bladeren/preparaatteksten/v/varenicline

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-12-21 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024