PRIVATE STOP SMOKING SERVICES
Willpower and motivation are powerful tools to help you quit smoking. But if you’re struggling, Champix could help you break the habit for good. According to a Cochrane review, Champix can double your chances of quitting, compared to determination alone.
WHAT IS CHAMPIX AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Champix is a plant-based nicotine substitute. The active ingredient varenicline tartrate is non-addictive. Instead, it can help adults quit smoking by relieving withdrawal symptoms and your cravings for a cigarette.
Nicotine works by releasing dopamine. So when you smoke, the nicotinic receptor releases this short-term neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. Taking Champix blocks the nicotine from reaching the receptor, reducing your enjoyment when smoking and helping you quit.
HOW DO I USE CHAMPIX?
Before you start the treatment, you’ll need to set a quit date. You’ll need to start taking Champix 1-2 weeks before that date.
You should take Champix for an initial course of 12 weeks. If you successfully stop smoking after 12 weeks, you should take a 12 week maintenance course, giving a total treatment time of 24 weeks.
On the initial 12 week course, you’ll take 0.5mg of Champix once a day for three days, followed by two tablets daily for four days. After the first week, you’ll take 1 mg daily for the next 11 weeks. Swallow the Champix tablets whole with water. 0.5mg tablets are white, and 1 mg tablets are light blue.
Days 1-3: take 0.5 mg once daily
Day 4-7: take 0.5 mg twice daily
Day 8 onwards: take 1 mg daily
For the follow-up course, take 1 mg daily to maintain your smoking cessation.
Take the pills at the same time every day, but don’t double up if you forget to take a dose.
You’ll still need determination and willpower to break the habit, but Champix doubles the likelihood of quitting for good.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
Before starting treatment, view the patient information leaflets for Champix 0.5 mg and Champix 1 mg.
After a short consultation with our pharmacist, we’ll supply a course of Champix with no prescription necessary.
SIDE EFFECTS
Like most medications, Champix has side effects. In addition to nicotine withdrawal, you may experience nausea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness or loss of appetite. If you experience vivid or abnormal dreams, take Champix with food.
AVAILABILITY
Select your preferred pharmacy to visit their page and enquire about this service. Or just pop into your local pharmacy when it suits you.
