Chantix Prescribing Information
Chantix is the brand name of the prescription medication varenicline. Doctors typically prescribe Chantix to help people stop smoking.
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Function
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Chantix works by blocking the receptors on your brain that are affected by nicotine, which prevents the stimulant from interacting with your brain if you do smoke. Additionally, Chantix affects your brain similarly to nicotine, but to a lesser degree, which decreases some of the unpleasant symptoms associated with quitting.
Dosage
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During the first three days of treatment, you take 0.5 mg once per day, on the fourth through seventh day you take 0.5 mg twice per day, and from day eight onward, the drug is given at a dosage of 1 mg twice per day, according to RxList.com.
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Time Frame
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Chantix is usually initially prescribed for 12 weeks. If the patient is still having cravings for nicotine after that time, doctors may prescribe the drug for an additional 12 weeks, for a total of 24 weeks of treatment.
Risks
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Common side effects of Chantix include abnormal dreams, bloating, changes in taste, constipation, dry mouth, flatulence, nausea, headache, weakness, insomnia, stomach pain and fatigue. Chantix poses a risk for serious psychological side effects like psychosis, hallucinations, paranoia, delusions, homicidal thoughts, hostility, agitation, anxiety, panic attacks and suicidal thoughts and actions, warns RxList.com.
Considerations
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Because its effects upon fetal development are unknown, doctors rarely prescribe Chantix for use in pregnant women. If you have a history of depression, mental illness or kidney disease, it may not be safe for you to take, cautions the Mayo Clinic.
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