It is available as a tablet, usually taken once a day at a lower dose for the first few days building up to a stronger dose taken twice a day after a week. People start taking it one to two weeks before they plan to stop smoking, and it is usually taken for about three months.
Champix can help reduce the cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with stopping smoking. Also if someone taking Champix smokes a cigarette they may find it less satisfying and less pleasurable than before, which can reduce the risk of a complete relapse.
Published research shows that Champix does increase a smoker’s chance of stopping smoking. The results from these studies are very encouraging, but more research is needed. Based on the available evidence Champix has been licensed for use in the NHS in Scotland as a prescription option.
Champix is available on prescription in Scotland from your doctor. It was approved by the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) in January 2007: Varenicline (Champix) for smoking cessation and by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) in July 2007: NICE guidance.
Champix is not recommended for:
It’s important that you tell your doctor what other medicines you are taking (including those bought without a prescription) before Champix is prescribed for you, and to tell your doctor or pharmacist that you are taking Champix before you take any new medicines.
Some people may experience nausea (feeling sick), difficulty sleeping, abnormal dreams or headaches.
People who experience side effects should seek their doctor’s advice, since this is a new drug it is especially important that you report any side effects.
Research shows that the best success rates for stopping smoking are achieved through specialist advice and support from trained professionals in combination with the use of stop smoking medications.
Champix, Nicotine Replacement Therapy (also known as NRT) and Zyban have all been shown to work in helping people to stop smoking.
In clinical trials Champix was found to be more effective than Zyban in helping patients to stop smoking.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy can be bought over the counter and is also available on prescription, while Champix and Zyban are only available on prescription. Your doctor or pharmacist will be able to advise which is the most suitable product and form of delivery for you.
For further information please contact the ASH Scotland Information Service by email at enquiries@ashscotland.org.uk or by phone on 0131 225 4725 (open Monday-Friday during office hours)
For help and advice on stopping smoking please call the NHS Health Scotland Smokeline on 0800 84 84 84 (open daily from noon to midnight)