Varenicline (Champix) Tablets

Varenicline is a medication that can help you quit smoking. By reducing nicotine cravings and making smoking less rewarding, it helps you kick the dangerous habit for good.

Previously sold under the brand name Champix, varenicline was approved for use in Europe by the EMA in September 2006. However, Champix tablets were recalled in 2021 due to an impurity issue, which has made them temporarily unavailable.

Since Champix was recalled, generic versions have been made available, allowing patients to once again benefit from the effective smoking cessation medication. Generic Varenicline contains the same active ingredient and has the same mechanism of action as Champix, ensuring it is just as effective.

At euroClinix, we prescribe 0.5 mg and 1 mg Varenicline tablets to help you quit smoking.

Is Varenicline the same as Champix?

While they contain the same active ingredient and have the same effect, there are some differences between Champix and generic versions. Most notably, generic Varenicline is generally cheaper than Champix, and the manufacturer and packaging can differ as well.

Varenicline works in two core ways to help you quit smoking:

How Varenicline works

A dual-action formula to help you quit smoking for good

Reduces cravings

By partially activating nicotine receptors in the brain, Varenicline mimics the effects of nicotine.

• Alleviates withdrawal symptoms
• Makes quitting more manageable

Blocks rewards

Varenicline blocks nicotine from binding to receptors, reducing the pleasure associated with smoking.

• Makes smoking less rewarding
• Breaks the cycle of craving and satisfaction

By working in these ways, Varenicline helps you to quit smoking for good.

Taking Varenicline to quit smoking provides many benefits.

Reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms

Taking this medication reduces the need to smoke and takes it off your mind.

Blocks the rewarding effects of smoking

Breaks the cycle of craving and satisfaction, making quitting easier.

Reduces dependence on nicotine

Since smoking is less rewarding, you become less dependent on it over time.

Increases your chances of quitting for good

Studies show that people using Varenicline are more likely to stay smoke-free long-term.

Convenient and easy to use

It's taken in pill form, making it easy to add to your daily routine.

Varenicline has been proven in clinical trials to be an effective smoking cessation treatment.

In one clinical trial involving 638 adult smokers, Varenicline was compared to a placebo in the treatment of nicotine addiction over 7 weeks. A separate study also examined its long-term impact. Here are the key findings:

• First study – 48% of patients taking Varenicline stopped smoking completely after 7 weeks, compared to only 17% in the placebo group.
• Second study – Among those who quit after 12 weeks, 70% of patients taking Varenicline remained smoke-free after 24 weeks, compared to just 49% of those taking a placebo.

This medication is not suitable for everyone. When you complete a consultation, our UK-registered doctors will determine whether Varenicline is safe for you.

Who can take it?

This treatment is suitable for men and women over 18 looking to quit smoking.

Who cannot take it?

You cannot take Varenicline if you are allergic to varenicline tartrate or any other ingredient in this medicine.

Cautions

In some cases, the safety of treatment will need to be discussed with your doctor. Tell them if:

• You have ever experienced depression or suicidal behaviour
• You have experienced changes in your mood as a result of taking another medication
• You have cardiovascular problems
• You have epilepsy or have experienced seizures

Please disclose your health status during your online consultation with euroClinix. Our doctor will evaluate whether treatment is suitable for you and may adjust your medications if needed.

To use Varenicline safely, follow the dosage and treatment course our medical team prescribes. This ensures the medication works as intended and helps avoid side effects.

Take each tablet with water. Do not break, chew or split tablets, as this can make them work less effectively.

Dosage

Each starter pack contains two doses: 0.5 mg and 1 mg tablets. Once you have completed the starter pack, you can be prescribed a refill pack which only contains either 0.5 mg or 1 mg doses.

You start with the white tablet, then usually go to the light blue tablet after a week.

See the following table for the general dosage schedule for Varenicline:

During the first week, you may still smoke. After this time, gradually reduce your nicotine intake until your set quit date. This allows your body to adjust to the medicine and reduces cravings gradually.

When do I take it?

If taking one tablet a day, take it at any time that suits you best, provided you take it at the same time every day.

If you are taking two tablets a day, take one tablet in the morning and one in the evening. Setting reminders can help you remember to take your tablets at the same time every day.

What if I miss a dose?

If you forget to take a tablet, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is too close to your next dose. If there is less than 4 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next one at the usual time.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Typically, Varenicline starts to take effect within 1-2 weeks. During this time, you should feel a reduction in cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but it can take up to 12 weeks for you to feel the full benefits of treatment.

It’s usually taken for 12 weeks, as this should be enough time for you to fully stop smoking and maintain your new habits. However, some people may benefit from further treatment, while others may only need to take it for a few weeks.

While Varenicline makes it easier, quitting smoking can still be challenging. Consider the following lifestyle tips to help you quit for good.

Your Varenicline treatment guide

Lifestyle changes to help you quit for good

Throw away all your cigarettes

Remove all cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays from your home, car, and workplace. Having cigarettes easily accessible creates unnecessary temptation.

Reach out to loved ones

Tell friends and family about your plan to quit and ask them to support you on your journey. A little help can go a long way.

Identify your triggers

Pay attention to situations that make you want to smoke, such as stress, drinking coffee or alcohol, or socialising with smokers. Create a plan to avoid these triggers.

Remind yourself why you're quitting

Make a list of reasons you want to quit smoking. Include health benefits, cost savings, and personal motivations. Keep this list handy and review it when it becomes hard.

Be kind to yourself

Quitting is challenging. Reward yourself for progress and don't be too hard on yourself if you slip up.

Keep busy

Fill your time with activities that keep your hands and mind occupied. Take up a new hobby, exercise regularly, or tackle projects you've been putting off.

High stress levels can lead to cigarette cravings. Eat foods rich in magnesium, such as leafy greens, nuts, legumes and seeds, to keep your stress in check and make you less likely to smoke.

Silvia Fonda Nutritionist

As with all prescription medicines, Varenicline can cause side effects. Tell your doctor about any Varenicline side effects you experience, including the following.

Very common side effects

Common side effects

Uncommon side effects

How to manage side effects

Most side effects can be managed at home. Do the following during treatment to treat side effects yourself:

• Take with food – taking your tablets with food can reduce nausea and prevent stomach upset.
• Gradual dose increase – follow your doctor’s instructions on which dose to take and when. Increasing your dose gradually allows your body to get used to the medicine.
• Stay active – regular physical activity can help with some of the mood-related side effects of Varenicline.
• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water to fuel your body and promote overall health. Take your tablets with a glass of water.
• Monitor your mood – take note of any emotional side effects and what causes them. If side effects are severe or worrying, seek immediate medical help.

While most side effects of Varenicline are mild and temporary, some, like depression and infections, may require further treatment. If side effects are persistent or worrisome, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for professional help.

Dr. Caroline Fontana Lead Prescribing Doctor

For more detailed information, please refer to the patient information leaflet.

Varenicline has no significant drug interactions, meaning it is generally safe to take alongside most other medicines.

However, there are still some which may impact treatment, if only slightly. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, including:

• Cimetidine (heartburn medication) – increases exposure to Varenicline. Your dosage may need to be altered, but this isn’t usually necessary.
• Warfarin (anticoagulant) – while it doesn’t directly interact with Varenicline, stopping smoking may affect how your body absorbs Warfarin.
• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) – the use of NRT alongside Varenicline may increase the risk of side effects and decrease blood pressure.

This list does not cover all possible interactions. For a comprehensive list, please visit the Varenicline interactions checker on Drugs.com.

Follow the advice in this table to use Betnovate effectively and safely.

Safety Tips

Pregnancy Consult your doctor

The safety of Varenicline during pregnancy has not been established. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss with your doctor whether this medication is appropriate for you.

Breastfeeding Consult your doctor

It is not known whether Varenicline passes into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider to determine if you should use this medication.

Alcohol Caution

Drinking alcohol while taking Varenicline may increase the risk of experiencing changes in behavior, thinking, or mood that are not typical for you.

Driving Caution

Varenicline may cause dizziness, sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medication affects you.

Heart health Consult your doctor

If you have existing heart or blood vessel problems, inform your doctor before starting on Varenicline. Report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.

Mental health Important

Be alert to any changes in mood, behavior, or thinking. If you experience depression, agitation, or suicidal thoughts, discontinue Varenicline and contact your doctor immediately.

Skin irritation Important

Severe skin reactions have been reported with Champix. If you develop a rash, blistering, or peeling skin, stop taking the medication and seek medical attention immediately.

Follow these guidelines when storing your Varenicline tablets:

• Store below 25°C in the original packaging
• Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children
• Do not use this medicine after the expiry date

Disposal

Do not throw away medicines via wastewater or household waste.

Take any unused medication to your local pharmacy for proper disposal. These measures help to protect the environment.

No, Varenicline is a prescription-only medication. You need a valid prescription from a healthcare professional to purchase it. This ensures the medication is safe and suitable for your needs.

You can receive an online prescription from euroClinix.

Ordering Varenicline online from euroClinix is convenient.

Follow these simple steps:

1. Complete a quick online consultation to check your eligibility.
2. UK-registered doctors review your responses to ensure the medication is right for you.
3. Upon approval, an e-prescription will be issued.
4. Enjoy free delivery from our licensed pharmacy with tracking details.

Your privacy is our top priority. At euroClinix, we use secure, encrypted transactions and comply with UK medical standards to keep your information confidential.

Start your online consultation today to enjoy professional care from the comfort of your home.

euroClinix is trusted by thousands in the UK for its safe and convenient service. Here’s why:

• Experienced doctors manage your consultations and prescriptions.
• Online consultations, quick approvals, and discreet doorstep delivery add to the convenience.
• A supportive team is on hand to answer treatment-related questions or concerns.
• Patients can manage their prescriptions hassle-free through our secure platform.

Join thousands who trust euroClinix with their healthcare needs and take control of your health today.

The price of Varenicline at euroClinix includes everything you need:

• Free online consultation with our experienced doctors
• Free prescription, if approved
• Free delivery straight to your door

Our pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees. Order today and benefit from our complete, all-inclusive service.

If this medicine is not suitable for you, we have other options available. Consult this table to see how they compare: