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Varenicline

Varenicline, previously known as Champix, works by reducing symptoms of withdrawal and blocking some of the ‘rewarding’ effects of smoking, making quitting easier and relapse less likely.  

The treatment course is 12 weeks:  

Day 1‒3: 0.5 mg tablet, swallowed whole once daily after food  

Day 4‒7: 0.5mg tablet swallowed whole, twice daily after food  

Day 8 onwards: 1mg tablet swallowed whole, twice daily after food  

Patients who cannot tolerate the adverse effects of varenicline can have the dose lowered temporarily or permanently to 0.5mg twice daily.  

The quit date is usually between Day 8 and Day 14.  

While side effects from varenicline are common, most appear to be mild and resolve within the first few weeks of treatment. Common side effects include: 

  • Sore or swollen (inflamed) nose or throat. 
  • Headaches 
  • Diarrhoea 
  • Heartburn  
  • Difficulty sleeping 
  • Feeling dizzy  
  • A bad taste in  mouth. 
100%

of people would recommend our services to a friend or family member.

(based on 25 responses over previous 6 months)

"Wingate Medical Centre works in close partnership with Smokefree Knowsley to help to reduce the smoking prevalence amongst our registered patients.  We frequently remind our patients that they have good access to smoking cessation advisors who can provide expert advice and invaluable telephone support (and a variety of medications) to help our patients wanting to quit.  The practice receives regular updates from the Smokefree Knowsley team on quit rates which we strive to improve.  We will continue to work closely with Smokefree Knowsley to encourage and support our patients to quit and significantly improve their everyday quality of life.  We encourage neighbour practices to do the same, to together achieve better outcomes, and to help to reduce health inequalities across Knowsley."

Kelly Atkins, Practice Manager, Wingate Medical Centre