Smokefree.gov

Online Guide to Quitting

Preparing to Quit

MEDICATION GUIDE

VARENICLINE FACT SHEET

Description of Product:	Varenicline, also known as Chantix, is a prescription medication that eases nicotine withdrawal symptoms and blocks the effects of nicotine from cigarettes if the user resumes smoking.

Dosing:	One pill twice daily.

Side Effects:	Side effects may include: Nausea Change in dreaming Constipation Gas Vomiting There have been rare reports of mood swings, depression and suicidal thoughts. Your doctor will want to monitor this carefully. Please check the FDA website for updates about this medication: www.fda.gov.

Precautions:	This fact sheet was created to give you a general understanding of this medication. Please note that this fact sheet may not provide you with all the information you need to make the decision to use this product. Always read the instructions on the package carefully and talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a severe medical problem, talk with your doctor before starting any new medication.

Special Precautions:	Pregnancy/breastfeeding: Smokers who are pregnant or breastfeeding should try to quit first without assistance from varenicline. Varenicline should be used during pregnancy only if the associated benefits outweigh the associated risks. Kidney Problems: Smokers should not use varenicline if they have kidney problems.

References: Information provided on the Medication Guide and Fact Sheets was obtained from a variety of sources, such as product information guides; manufacturers' Web sites, medical Web sites, and articles in the medical literature, including Corelli, R.L. & Hudman, K.S. (2006) Pharmacologic interventions for smoking cessation, Crit Care Nurs Clin N Am, 18, 39-51.