Common Use

Champix is a medication designed to help you quit smoking. Its active component, Varenicline, selectively binds with α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in neurons. The effectiveness of Champix is due to its partial agonism for α4β2 nicotinic receptors. By binding to these receptors, Champix reduces addiction to smoking, alleviates withdrawal symptoms, and diminishes the pleasure derived from smoking.

Dosage and Direction

Before starting treatment, patients should set a date to stop smoking. Begin taking Champix two weeks before this date. The dosage schedule is as follows:

• Take 0.5 mg once daily for the first 1-3 days.
• Take 0.5 mg twice daily from days 4-7.
• From day 8 until the end of the treatment course, take 1 mg twice daily.

The recommended dose is 1 mg taken twice a day. If the medication is not well tolerated, the dose may be reduced to 0.5 mg twice daily. Take the tablet orally with a full glass of water, swallowing it whole without chewing or crushing. It can be taken with food or between meals. Treatment typically lasts for 12 weeks.

Precautions

Champix may cause dizziness, fainting, or impair cognitive reactions. Use caution when driving or operating machinery. Notify your doctor if you experience changes in behavior or mood, such as depression, agitation, hostility, or suicidal thoughts. Persistent nausea may occur for several months. Inform your doctor if you have kidney disease, a history of mental illness, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Contraindications

Champix should not be used by patients with hypersensitivity to its components, pregnant women, or breastfeeding mothers. Its safety in adolescents under 18 years of age and children has not been established.

Possible Side Effects

Champix may cause cognitive impairment, behavioral changes, fever, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, severe blistering, sore throat, peeling, rash, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, increased appetite, weight gain, or decreased heart rate. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice blistering or skin rash. Other potential side effects include unusual dreams, insomnia, tremors, poor coordination, hypertension, anxiety, changes in taste sensation, and fluctuations in libido.

Drug Interactions

Inform your doctor about all medications and herbal products you are using, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs. Potential interactions include Clozapine, Flecainide, Dextropropoxyphene, Olanzapine, Fluvoxamine, Phenylbutazone, Pentazocine, Tacrine, certain benzodiazepines (e.g., Oxazepam), beta-blockers (e.g., Propranolol), Theophylline, tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., Imipramine), and Warfarin.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms of Champix overdose are not well-documented. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor immediately.

Storage

Store Champix at room temperature, between 20-25°C (68-77°F).

Disclaimer

The information provided here is general and does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. It is not intended for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Specific instructions for your treatment should be discussed with your healthcare provider. We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of this information and are not responsible for any direct or indirect damages resulting from its use or self-treatment.