About varenicline

Varenicline (previously called Champix) is a medicine that can help you stop smoking.

The addictive part of cigarette tobacco is called nicotine. Varenicline can reduce the cravings for nicotine and helps with the withdrawal you get when you stop smoking. These symptoms can include an urge to smoke again, feeling depressed or irritable, and difficulty sleeping.

Varenicline is only available on prescription and comes as tablets.

Key facts

• Varenicline, along with support such as counselling, should increase your chances of stopping.
• 1 course of varenicline treatment lasts 12 weeks.
• After several days of taking varenicline, you'll usually notice that you’re craving fewer cigarettes each day.
• Common side effects include headaches, feeling sick or feeling dizzy.
• It’s important to decide on a date to stop smoking. When you do, you’ll aim to start taking varenicline 1 to 2 weeks before this date.