Chantix is an effective non-nicotine prescription medication for many tobacco users trying to quit. It is a tablet you take once a day for three days and then increase to twice a day. Chantix should be started one week before your Quit Date and can be taken while continuing to smoke until your Quit Date. When taken every day, Chantix reduces the rewarding effects of smoking. Once you quit smoking, it helps to lessen cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Before your Quit Date, talk to your doctor about Chantix and see if it is appropriate for you. Your doctor will advise you about how to take this medicine. Chantix is generally taken for at least 12 weeks. If you have quit smoking at the end of 12 weeks, your doctor may advise taking for 12 more weeks. The most common side effects are nausea, vomiting and trouble sleeping. These side effects lessen with continued use. Chantix is not recommended for use with nicotine replacement medicines.
Chantix has the following label that should be followed:
The patient should stop taking CHANTIX and contact a healthcare provider immediately if agitation, hostility, depressed mood, or changes in behavior or thinking that are not typical for the patient are observed, or if the patient develops suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior while taking CHANTIX or shortly after discontinuing CHANTIX.
Fiore MC, Jaén CR, Baker TB, et al. Treating Tobacco Use and Dependence: 2008 Update. Clinical Practice Guideline. Rockville, MD: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Public Health Service. May 2008.