What is Varenicline?

Varenicline is a medication specifically designed to help individuals quit smoking. It belongs to a class of medicines called nicotine receptor partial agonists, which work by targeting the same receptors in the brain that nicotine binds to. By partially stimulating these receptors, Varenicline helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms while also blocking the pleasurable effects of nicotine from cigarettes.

Previously sold under the brand name Champix, Varenicline is now available as a generic medication in the UK following supply shortages. It is widely prescribed as an effective treatment for individuals looking to quit smoking permanently.

What is Varenicline Used For?

Smoking Cessation: Varenicline helps people stop smoking by reducing cravings, minimising withdrawal symptoms, and blocking nicotine's rewarding effects.

At 123Meds, we offer Varenicline for smoking cessation only—if you require additional support to quit smoking, we recommend consulting your GP or a smoking cessation specialist for further guidance.

How Varenicline Works

Varenicline supports smoking cessation by targeting the nicotine receptors in the brain, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of nicotine addiction. Its mechanism of action is designed to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce the rewarding effects of smoking, making it easier for individuals to quit.

Mechanism of Action:

Binds to Nicotine Receptors: Varenicline acts as a partial agonist at nicotine receptors. This means it binds to these receptors and produces a moderate response, which helps ease withdrawal symptoms and diminishes cravings without triggering the full effects that nicotine would.

Blocks Nicotine Effects: By occupying the nicotine receptors, Varenicline prevents nicotine from binding and activating these receptors. This blockade reduces the satisfaction and reinforcing effects that smokers typically experience, making smoking less appealing.

Reduces Pleasure from Smoking: With the nicotine receptors partially stimulated and blocked, the overall rewarding experience of smoking is significantly diminished. This reduction in pleasure helps break the habitual association between smoking and positive feelings, supporting long-term cessation.

When is Smoking Cessation Treatment Needed?

Smoking cessation treatment becomes essential when repeated attempts to quit smoking have been unsuccessful, and the persistent nature of nicotine addiction — both physical and psychological — makes it exceptionally challenging to overcome without professional help.

Factors Indicating the Need for Treatment:

Strong Nicotine Dependence: Individuals who find themselves lighting up within minutes of waking or who smoke frequently throughout the day often exhibit a high level of dependence, signaling that additional support may be beneficial.

Withdrawal Symptoms: Experiencing intense irritability, anxiety, restlessness, or persistent cravings during quit attempts are clear signs of physical dependence. These symptoms can be overwhelming and may hinder the ability to quit without assistance.

Health Risks: Long-term smoking significantly increases the risk of severe health conditions, such as lung disease, heart disease, and stroke. When these risks become a concern, seeking treatment is a proactive step toward improving overall health.

Medical practitioners will assess factors such as your smoking history, level of dependence, and previous quit attempts to determine the most effective treatment plan, which may include medications like Varenicline along with additional support measures.

Can Varenicline Be Purchased Over the Counter? 

Varenicline is a prescription-only medication in the UK. It is not available over the counter, meaning a consultation with a prescriber is required to ensure it is safe and appropriate based on medical history.

Your 123Meds prescriber will assess your smoking habits and medical background to determine if Varenicline is suitable for you.

Alternative Smoking Cessation Treatments

While Varenicline is a leading treatment for quitting smoking, there are other effective medications and therapies available in the UK that may be better suited to your specific situation. Some alternative treatments include:

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT):
Available in various forms such as patches, gum, lozenges, and inhalers, NRT provides controlled doses of nicotine to help ease withdrawal symptoms and gradually reduce dependency.

Bupropion (Zyban):
This is a prescription medication that works on brain chemicals involved in nicotine addiction. It helps reduce cravings and the severity of withdrawal symptoms, offering another effective option for those trying to quit.

Combination Therapy:
For some individuals, a combination of NRT and prescription medications like Varenicline or Bupropion may enhance the overall success rate of smoking cessation by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of nicotine dependence.

If you are unsure about the best treatment for quitting smoking or require additional guidance, please speak to your 123Meds prescriber. They can provide personalized advice to help you choose the most suitable option for your needs.

How to Take Varenicline?

Start Before Quitting:
Begin your treatment with Varenicline one to two weeks before your planned quit date. This head start allows the medication to begin modulating nicotine receptors, reducing withdrawal symptoms even before you stop smoking.

Dosage:

Days 1–3: Take 0.5 mg once daily. This initial dose helps your body gradually adjust to the medication.

Days 4–7: Increase your dosage to 0.5 mg twice daily. This step-up in dosing further prepares your system for complete cessation.

Day 8 Onwards: Continue with 1 mg twice daily for up to 12 weeks. Maintaining this dosage supports sustained relief from cravings and withdrawal symptoms throughout your quit journey.

With Food: Varenicline can be taken with or without food. However, taking it after meals with a full glass of water may help reduce any nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort.

Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not double up on doses to compensate for a missed one. Always adhere to the specific instructions provided by your 123Meds prescriber to ensure safe and effective treatment.

By following these detailed directions, you can maximize the benefits of Varenicline as part of your smoking cessation plan.

Varenicline contains both active and inactive ingredients that work together to support smoking cessation.

Active Ingredient: The active ingredient in Varenicline is Varenicline Tartrate, which helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms by interacting with nicotine receptors in the brain.

Inactive Ingredients: Inactive ingredients such as microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, and magnesium stearate help shape the tablet, ensure stability, and aid in absorption.

Always check the patient information leaflet (PIL) in your pack for the full ingredient list — especially if you have allergies or sensitivities.

Varenicline is generally safe for most individuals, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and temporary. However, some more serious side effects require immediate medical attention.

Common Side Effects

Nausea: The most frequently reported side effect.

Headaches: Mild to moderate headaches may occur.

Sleep Disturbances: Includes insomnia and vivid dreams.

Dizziness: Some users may experience lightheadedness.

Dry Mouth: A common, temporary side effect.

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

Mood Changes: This includes depression or suicidal thoughts. Seek medical advice immediately if these occur.

Allergic Reactions: Such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing; these require urgent attention.

Seizures: Although rare, seizures are a serious side effect that needs prompt medical evaluation.

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it is crucial to seek immediate medical help from your GP, NHS111, or A&E.

Before starting Varenicline, please ensure that you have declared all pre-existing conditions to your 123Meds prescriber so they can determine the most appropriate treatment and dosage.