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- Varenicline is a non-nicotine medicine that operates in two different manners. It focuses on the nicotine receptors that are situated within the brain, connects to them and obstructs nicotine from getting to them. It also activates and stimulates the nicotine receptors, which results in a decreased emission of dopamine when compared to nicotine.
- Smokers that plan on using varenicline are advised to begin use of the medication approximately a week before they cease smoking entirely. This helps in allowing varenicline to collect and accumulate within the body. Individuals are permitted to smoke during the initial week of treatment, but they must stop completely on the eighth day.
- Using varenicline can cause some severe side effects. Possible side effects include suicidal feelings or behaviors, agitation, depression, hostility, paranoia, unusual sensations, hallucinations, anger, confusion, mania, panic and anxiety. Individuals who experience any of these side effects need to seek emergency medical attention. Skin reactions are also possible varenicline side effects and can occasionally be fatal. Some signs to look out for include redness, rash, swelling, or peeling of the skin.
- Using varenicline can also produce some common (and generally minor) side effects as well, which include sleep difficulties (including unusual dreams and difficulty falling asleep), nausea, throwing up, gas and constipation. These side effects tend to subside rapidly as the body gets used to the medication. If they are particularly a problem or do not go away, however, you should consult your doctor about them.
- Varenicline is an oral medication. It is a tablet and is taken either one or two times on a daily basis. It is intended to be taken after a meal with a glass of water. It should be taken at approximately the same time every day. For those taking it twice a day, one dosage should be in the morning, while the other should be at night.
