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Product details

Champix (varenicline) is a prescription medicine that significantly increases quit rates in adults who want to stop smoking, reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings.

Overview

Varenicline is a partial agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (specifically the alpha4-beta2 subtype). It works in two ways: it partially stimulates the receptor to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and it blocks nicotine from binding, reducing the reward associated with smoking. Varenicline is the most effective single pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation: clinical trials show it approximately doubles or triples quit rates compared to placebo. A standard course is 12 weeks, with the option to extend by a further 12 weeks for those who have quit.

Directions

Start taking Champix 1–2 weeks before your planned quit date. Week 1: take 0.5mg once daily for 3 days, then 0.5mg twice daily for 4 days. From week 2 onwards: take 1mg twice daily for the remaining 11 weeks. Take with food and a full glass of water to reduce nausea. Set a quit date and use behavioural support alongside medication. If you are not ready to stop smoking immediately, you can reduce smoking gradually over the first 12 weeks.

Side Effects

  • Nausea (very common — taking with food usually helps)
  • Insomnia or abnormal dreams
  • Headache
  • Flatulence
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation or diarrhoea
  • Dizziness
  • Depressed mood or changes in behaviour (rare but important — seek advice if experienced)
  • Suicidal thoughts (rare — seek immediate help; risk may relate to nicotine withdrawal rather than the drug itself)

Why choose Fastheal

Free discreet next-day delivery
UK-registered clinicians
Secure and confidential