Chantix is a prescription drug that was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May 2006 to help adult cigarette smokers stop smoking. Chantix does not contain nicotine and works by stimulating nicotine receptors in the brain, just as nicotine does, but blocks the nicotine from attaching to them, reducing the pleasurable effects of tobacco as well as the desire to smoke. On July 1, 2009, the FDA required the manufacturers of the smoking cessation drugs varenicline (Chantix) and bupropion (Zyban and generics) add new boxed warnings and develop Medication Guides for patients to highlight the risk of serious neuropsychiatric symptoms as possible side effects. Common side effects associated with Chantix use include nausea, depression, anxiety, heart palpitations and vivid dreams. It has also been linked to more serious side effects such as erratic and violent behavior, psychotic episodes and suicidal thoughts.

If you, or a loved one, has been prescribed Chantix, contact us immediately.