About Champix

Champix is currently the most prescribed smoking cessation drug. The medication received approval from the US FDA for use as a prescription only stop smoking drug in May 2006. In a span of just three years the drug has helped millions of people to achieve their goal to stop smoking and to lead a healthier life. At the same time, the safety and efficacy of Champix as a quit smoking drug has also been effectively proven. Medical professionals across the world are increasingly recommending Champix to their nicotine addict patients who are determined to quit.

Varenicline - the active ingredient in Champix belongs to a class of medicines called nicotine receptor antagonists. The unique feature of Champix is that it can mimic the action of nicotine. It binds itself to the nicotine receptors in the brain and thereby releases low levels of dopamine – this is the same chemical which is released when a person actually smokes. The release of dopamine enhances the pleasure. Champix dupes the brain into thinking that it has received its dosage of nicotine and helps people to get rid of their painful nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Furthermore, Champix Varenicline stops nicotine from binding to its receptors in the brain. This action means a person on Champix will not derive the same pleasure out of smoking as he/she used to get earlier. People taking Champix treatment therefore have little inclination to go back to smoking again. The chance of quitting is much higher for a person on the Champix treatment. In fact, clinical trials have shown Champix quadruples the odds of quitting.

Who can take Champix?

Champix Varenicline is a prescription only drug and can only be prescribed after you have consulted with a doctor. Only your doctor is qualified to judge the suitability of Champix for you. This list below defines the criteria which you will have to meet before you can be prescribed Champix:

• You should be above 18 years of age.
• You should have the will to quit. In the absence of a strong determination to stop smoking, you may fail to get the desired benefits of Champix.
• Pregnant women should not use Champix.
• Women who are breastfeeding should use Champix with caution.
• You must use Champix with caution if you have kidney disorders.
• You should not use Champix if you have a history of seizures or mental illness such as depression.
• Champix is not compatible with certain prescription and non-prescription medications. Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications, especially if you are taking insulin, asthma medicines or blood thinners.
• Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any medicine, foods, preservatives or dyes.

How do I use Champix?

If the doctor finds Champix suitable in your case, you will be required to determine a date when you will quit smoking. The Champix treatment begins one week in advance of this quit date. During this time, you will be prescribed a low-dose of Champix so that your body gets adjusted to the medicine. For the first three days you’ll be given a 0.5mg Champix tablet once a day. From days 4-7 your Champix dosage will be increased by taking the tablet twice a day. For the following 12 weeks of treatment, you will need to increase to the 1mg Champix tablet twice a day.

You should take Champix with a full glass of water after a meal to minimise nausea. You should try not to miss your Champix dose. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. Although, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Most importantly, you should use the Champix treatment in conjunction with medical counselling. People who’ve been addicted for years may require constant motivation to fight of their nicotine addiction once and for all.

How long do I need to take the Champix treatment?

Most people on Champix quit smoking by the end of the 12-week course. However, your doctor may recommend you another 12-week treatment if there’s the threat of a smoking relapse. An additional 12-week treatment may also be recommended to patients who fail to quit during the initial 12-week treatment.