What is Champix and How Does it Work?
Champix is a non-nicotine medication designed to help adults quit smoking. The active ingredient, varenicline tartrate, works by blocking the effects of nicotine in the brain. When you smoke, nicotine activates nicotinic receptors in the brain, causing the release of dopamine, which creates feelings of pleasure. Champix reduces the effect of nicotine on these receptors, making smoking less enjoyable and helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

How to Use Champix
Start taking Champix 1-2 weeks before your planned quit date. Here’s the dosage schedule:

• Days 1-3: Take 0.5mg once daily (white tablet)
• Days 4-7: Take 0.5mg twice daily (white tablet)
• Day 8 to end of treatment (12 weeks): Take 1mg twice daily (light blue tablet)

If you successfully quit smoking after 12 weeks, continue taking 1mg twice daily for another 12 weeks to help stay smoke-free.

Take the tablets with or without food and at the same time each day. If you forget a dose, don’t take two doses to make up for it.

Important Notes:

• You may experience irritability, cravings, or low mood after finishing the treatment. In such cases, you can reduce the medication slowly.
• Champix may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so be cautious when driving.