Indications  

Chantix Starting Pack is a prescribed smoking cessation medication administered alongside education and counseling to aid individuals in quitting smoking. 

The active ingredient in this medication, varenicline, functions by inhibiting the brain’s response to nicotine, reducing the desire to smoke. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before using Chantix Starting Pack and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or concerns. 

Doctors typically prescribe Chantix at a low dose and gradually increase it during the first week of treatment. 

Initially, this medication is taken once daily and later twice daily, in the morning and evening, with a full glass of water after eating. 

Chantix can be taken in three different ways to assist in smoking cessation: 

• Set a quit date and begin taking Chantix one week prior. Smoking can be continued during the first week, but cessation should be attempted on the chosen quit date. 
• Start taking Chantix and quit smoking between 8 and 35 days after commencing treatment. 
• If a gradual approach is preferred, start taking Chantix and progressively reduce smoking over 12 weeks. Decrease cigarette consumption by half in weeks 1-4, by one quarter in weeks 5-8, and gradually reduce until complete cessation by week 12 or earlier if ready. 

To ensure optimal effectiveness, take Chantix consistently around the same time(s) each day as directed.  

Avoid exceeding the prescribed dose or taking this medication more frequently. Taking higher doses will not expedite your progress and can increase the risk of side effects.  

Upon completing a 12-week treatment and successfully quitting smoking, your physician may suggest an additional 12 weeks of varenicline treatment. 

If smoking persists after a few weeks of treatment, inform your doctor. If you cannot quit smoking after 12 weeks of treatment, consult your doctor for further guidance. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects that may arise from using Chantix. Inform your doctor if any of them last or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Prolonged nausea  
• Vomiting  
• Constipation 
• Gas  
• Insomnia  
• Abnormal dreams 

Serious Side Effects 

• Seizures (convulsions) 
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm 
• Abnormal dreams, sleepwalking, insomnia 
• New or worsening mental health issues, including: 
  • Mood or behavioral changes 
  • Depression 
  • Agitation 
  • Hostility 
  • Aggression 
• Symptoms of a heart attack, such as: 
  • Chest pain or pressure 
  • Nausea 
  • Sweating 
  • Chest pain spreading to the jaw or shoulder  
• Symptoms of a stroke, such as: 
  • Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body 
  • Slurred speech 
  • Drooping on one side of the face 
  • Issues with balance or vision 

Stop taking Chantix and call your doctor right away if you experience any of the severe side effects listed above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Seek emergency medical assistance if you experience an allergic reaction to Chantix or a severe skin reaction: 

• Signs of an allergic reaction include: 
  • Hives 
  • Difficulty breathing 
  • Swelling in the face or throat 
• Signs of severe skin reaction may include: 
  • Fever 
  • Sore throat 
  • Burning eyes 
  • Skin pain 
  • Red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling 

This is not an exhaustive list of Chantix side effects. If you experience any unlisted effects, notify your physician immediately. 

Cautions 

Before using Chantix Starting Pack, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you have, especially to varenicline. 

Inactive ingredients in this product may also trigger allergic reactions or other issues. Consult with your doctor for further information. 

To ensure Chantix Starting Pack is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Kidney disease 
• Mental or mood disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression) 
• Heart or blood vessel disease (e.g., coronary artery disease, peripheral vascular disease, stroke) 
• Seizure 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medicines you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, other dietary supplements, and herbal products, to minimize the possibility of drug interactions that could impact the efficacy of Chantix or raise the likelihood of adverse effects. 

The elimination of certain drugs like insulin, theophylline, and warfarin can be impacted by smoking. After quitting smoking, it may be necessary for your doctor to adjust the dosage of these drugs. Inform all healthcare providers of your smoking cessation. 

Refrain from utilizing other medications for smoking cessation unless specifically instructed by your doctor. Concurrent use of Chantix and nicotine patches can result in unpleasant side effects. 

Chantix may induce dizziness, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, or impaired concentration. Refrain from operating vehicles, using machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you can safely do so. 

Pregnant women should use Chantix Starting Pack only if necessary. Consult your doctor to evaluate the advantages and drawbacks. 

Consult your doctor before breastfeeding, as it is uncertain if varenicline is transferred through breast milk.