Varenicline Tartrate (Champix Tablets) - Product information and Uses

Varenicline Tartrate available in the form of Champix and Chantix , is a prescription medication that is used to treat smoking addiction. Varenicline stimulates nicotine receptors more weakly than nicotine does, that is, it is a nicotinic receptor partial agonist. In this respect it is similar to cytisine and different from the nicotinic antagonist, bupropion, and nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) like nicotine patches and nicotine gum. As a partial agonist it both reduces cravings for and decreases the pleasurable effects of cigarettes and other tobacco products. Through these mechanisms it can assist some patients to quit smoking.
Varenicline is indicated for smoking cessation. It is more effective than NRTs and nicotine agonists. The FDA has approved its use for twelve weeks. If smoking cessation has been achieved it may be continued for another twelve weeks. Varenicline has not been tested in those under 18 years old or pregnant women and therefore is not recommended for use by these groups.

Varenicline Tartrate - Availability And Packaging

Varenicline Tartrate is available as Champix Tablets which is packaged as 0.5 mg (white) and 1 mg (light blue) tablets.

Side Effects of Varenicline Tartrate (Champix Tablets)

The most common effects of Champix Tablets are Nausea, vomiting,Trouble sleeping, Headache, Abnormal dreams (vivid, unusual, or increased dreaming; rarely may include nightmares), Sleepiness, tiredness, dizziness, Constipation, diarrhea, gas.
The FDA announced it had received post-marketing reports that patients using varenicline for smoking cessation had experienced several serious symptoms, including suicidal ideation and occasional suicidal behavior, erratic behavior, and drowsiness. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) conducted an analysis of post-marketing adverse effects reports received by the FDA. According to this analysis, in the fourth quarter of 2007 varenicline accounted for more reports of serious side effects than any other drug. Suicidal acts and ideation, psychosis, and hostility or aggression, including homicidal ideation, were the most prominent psychiatric side effects.

Varenicline Tartrate (Champix Tablets) - Dosage

Day 1 - 3
Take one white Champix 0.5 mg tablet once a day.
Day 4 - 7
Take one white Champix 0.5 mg tablet twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, at about the same time each day.
Week 2 (day 8) to the end of treatment: There are two dosing options
Day 8 to end of treatment
0.5 mg twice a day:
Continue to take one white Champix 0.5 mg pill in the morning, and one in the evening, at about the same time each day
OR
Day 8 to end of treatment
1.0 mg twice a day
1.0 mg twice a day: Take one light blue CHAMPIX 1.0 mg pill in the morning, and one in the evening, at about the same time each day

Varenicline Tartrate (Champix Tablets) - Contraindications

Do not take Champix if you are hypersensitive to varenicline tartrate or any of the other inactive ingredients of Champix tablets. Champix is also contraindicated in patients using nicotine replacement therapy, such as patches, gum or inhaler.

Additional Information

Additional Info: Prescribing Information