How to Quit Smoking Using Chantix
If you have tried to quit smoking and failed, consider using the new drug, Varenicline, which is sold under the trade name Chantix. It works differently than other smoking cessation aids and boasts a success rate of 44% after 12 weeks.
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Instructions
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Talk to your doctor about Chantix, which is a prescription medication. It works differently than other stop-smoking aids in that it blocks the effects of nicotine on your brain. Because smoking can no longer feel the "smoker's rush" generated by the nicotine in a cigarette, smoking is no longer pleasurable.
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Set a quit date one week from the day you begin taking Chantix, which comes in tablet form. You can continue smoking for the first week, but it will become less and less pleasurable. Expect to feel frustrated when you do not feel the relief you normally do when smoking a cigarette, and prepare to undergo nicotine withdrawal. Nicotine withdrawal can produce irritability, headache, fatigue, inability to concentrate, and unclear thinking, among other symptoms.
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When you reach your quit date, throw away your cigarettes, lighter, ashtrays, and any other smoking paraphernalia. You may still want to smoke, but because it's no longer pleasurable and there is no way to cut down on the level of Chantix in your bloodstream that is making it less pleasurable, you will not be very tempted to go out and buy a pack of cigarettes.
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Continue to take Chantix as directed for the duration of the 12-week treatment. Your doctor will likely ask to see you at some point during treatment to see how you are doing and evaluate whether you might benefit from another 12-week course of the drug.
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Tips & Warnings
Always take Chantix on a full stomach and with 8 oz. water to prevent nausea. Do not skip a dose and take the full 12-week treatment regimen even if you do not feel tempted to smoke.
Take very good care of yourself while you quit smoking. Sleep as much as you need to, eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, drink lots of water, and do not over plan your time. You need to relax and help your body heal from the effects of smoking.
If you slip up and smoke while taking Chantix, do not give up. Keep trying and get support from your doctor or from the Chantix GETQUIT Support Plan.
Talk to your doctor if you experience any serious side effects listed in the Chantix literature or if you become pregnant.
Do not use any other smoking-cessation aids while you are using Chantix.
