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Smokefree South | Southern | Te Whatu Ora
Public Service, Other
Varenicline Pfizer (previously Champix)
Using it:
- Oral tablet.
- You can start by taking Varenicline Pfizer for at least one week before you stop smoking or stop smoking between 8 and 35 days of using Varenicline Pfizer.
- Important to complete the 12-week course.
Good Points:
- Easy to use.
- Twice daily dosing.
- Can reduce the urge to smoke and remove the pleasure associated with smoking.
Things to think about:
- Should not be used with other stop smoking medications.
- Common adverse effects may include nausea, abnormal dreams and sleep disturbance.
- If you experience changes in mood or behaviour, stop taking Varenicline Pfizer and contact your health care worker immediately.
Free and available:
- One 3 month course fully funded every year (subject to Special Authority Criteria) on prescription from your GP.
Not suitable for:
- Children/young people under the age of 18 years.
- Do NOT use if pregnant, breastfeeding or allergic to it.