Varenicline Tablets

Developed to target nicotine addiction pathways, utilized to support patients to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and cravings while quitting smoking.

Strengths: 0.5 · 1mg

Medicine details

Alternative names

Champix

Therapeutic class

smoking cessation aid

Pharmacological class

nicotinic receptor partial agonist

Contraindications

hypersensitivity to varenicline

Precautions and warnings

monitor for changes in behaviour or mood; may impair ability to drive

Minor side effects

nausea; headache; insomnia

Moderate side effects

vivid dreams; abdominal pain

Dosage forms

Film-coated tablet

Administration route

Oral use

Prescription status

POM

Manufacturer

Pfizer

Onset Time

1–2 weeks

Duration

24 hours

Storage instructions

Store below 30°C.

Drug interactions

nicotine replacement therapy

Age restrictions

Adults only.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Pregnancy: not recommended. Breastfeeding: not recommended.

Serious side effects

suicidal ideation — requires immediate medical attention; severe allergic reaction — requires immediate medical attention

Patient summary

Developed to target nicotine addiction pathways, utilized to support patients to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and cravings while quitting smoking.

Mechanism of action

Varenicline acts as a partial agonist at alpha-4-beta-2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain. It provides enough receptor stimulation to reduce nicotine withdrawal and craving while simultaneously blocking nicotine from binding to these receptors, making smoking less rewarding.

Varenicline Tablets

Developed to target nicotine addiction pathways, utilized to support patients to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and cravings while quitting smoking.

Editorial Notes

  • Active ingredient(s): Varenicline
  • Listed indication(s): Tobacco Dependence

Usually available as

  • 60 tablets - 0.5 mg1157-0-5-mg-13676
  • 30 tablets - 1 mg1157-1-mg-13672