Varenicline

Varenicline for smoking cessation

Smoking is a leading avoidable cause of illness and early mortality. Varenicline is an effective smoking cessation therapy. Studies have demonstrated that people that take varenicline are more likely to quit smoking compared to nicotine replacement therapy. 

It is recommended that patients continue to smoke for 7 to 14 days when they commence treatment with varenicline. The treatment is usually for about 12 weeks, however an additional 12 week course may be considered for abstinence maintenance. 

How does it work?

Varenicline acts as a partial agonist at the α4β2 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. It acts as an agonist and an antagonist (in presence of nicotine) at the receptor site. Its ability to act as a partial agonist reduces the cravings associated with smoking cessation, while also reducing the rewarding and reinforcing effects of smoking by blocking nicotine from binding to α4β2 receptors through its antagonist activity. Smoking cessation treatments are more likely to be successful in patients sufficiently motivated to stop smoking.  

Is it suitable for me?

Varenicline is an established treatment for smoking cessation, however may not be suitable for you if the following applies:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• If you are allergic to varenicline
• Taking certain other medications
• Have kidney disease
• Untreated mental health disorders

Like all medicines, varenicline can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Please find a list of commonly associated side effects with varenicline:

• Nausea
• Abnormal dreams
• Difficulty sleeping
• Inflammation of nose and throat
• Skin rash, itching
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Tiredness
• Ringing in the ears
• Eye pain
• High blood sugar
• Feeling depressed, suicidal thoughts

If you experience any side effects talk to your doctor or pharmacist immediately. This also includes side effects not listed above and in the patient information leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the MHRA's yellow card scheme.

Always take this medicine as advised by your doctor or the pharmacist. Before starting varenicline you should decide the date (between day 8 to 14) when will you stop smoking.

If you are unable to tolerate 1mg dose, contact the prescriber and discuss a reduction in the dose to 0.5mg twice daily. If you are unsure how to take the medicine please contact a doctor or a pharmacist.