Chantix, or Varenicline, is a prescription medicine that helps adults quit or stop smoking. It’s essentially a smoking cessation aid that will likely be more successful when used as part of a support program to help people stop smoking. You may see it being used alongside and with counseling support or other behavior modification tools which can help someone stop smoking even more effectively. It can take up to several weeks before you feel any benefits of the prescription drug.

Always consult with a doctor before you take Chantix since there are special precautions that you should follow. Your healthcare provider or doctor will advise you on when you should start taking Chantix. Smoking is typically a physical and behavioral challenge. Therefore, keep in mind that although it’s effective it is not a magic pill. The upside is that it does and will make smoking less enjoyable for you. Overall, it’s considered a popular medication that can help people quit smoking.

What is Chantix Prescribed For?

The purpose of Chantix is to help people stop smoking. It’s prescribed to adults (17 years of age or older) who want to quit smoking. It has also been proven to work for people who are considered heavy smokers. It’s an option for adult smokers who wish to quit. Depending on your quit approach, you may be advised to take it for anywhere between three to six months. There are also some people who should not take Chantix based on medical history so always consult with your doctor. It is considered safe for many people.

How Does Chantix Work?

Chantix works by blocking the pleasant effects of nicotine (that come from smoking) on the brain. Nicotine is essentially blocked from even reaching the receptors in your brain. Nicotine gives you a euphoric feeling almost immediately and this is the main reason why it’s so hard to quit smoking. It then can break the pleasure cycle that comes with being a habitual smoker. Not only that, but it also releases small amounts of dopamine which prevents cravings from occurring. Therefore, Chantix works on two levels. You may notice that it starts working best after a few weeks pass by. The majority of people will take it for up to 12 weeks.

What Are The Side Effects of Chantix?

There are some side effects of Chantix that you may or may not experience. Some of these side effects include vomiting, drowsiness, gas, constipation, nausea, headache, trouble sleeping, and possibly changes in taste. Other people have reported mood swings, unusual behavior, and muscle spasms. A small percentage also had neurological side effects. However, the negative effects on mental health continue to be debated today. Always consult with your healthcare provider or doctor if you’re concerned about the side effects you experience or if they worsen. Generally speaking, the side effects that come with Chantix are typically mild and manageable.