Smoking cessation
Varenicline guide
How to take varenicline to help stop smoking, with the dosing schedule, quit date timing, and support for side effects.
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How to use
- 01
Step 1
Start 1-2 weeks before your quit date
Take 0.5 mg once daily for 3 days, then 0.5 mg twice daily for 4 days, then 1 mg twice daily. Set a quit date between days 8 and 14.
- 02
Step 2
Take with a full glass of water after food
Taking the tablets with water after food can help reduce nausea.
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Dose schedule
- 01
Step 1
Week 1: dose escalation
0.5 mg once daily (days 1-3), then 0.5 mg twice daily (days 4-7). The planned quit date is usually 1-2 weeks after starting.
- 02
Step 2
Week 2 onwards: maintenance
1 mg twice daily for the remainder of the 12-week course. Complete the course even if you stop smoking early.
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Side effects
Nausea and gastrointestinal effects
Nausea is the most common side effect. Taking with food and water helps. Constipation, gas, and vomiting can also occur.
Mood and sleep changes
Unusual dreams, insomnia, headache, mood changes, and dizziness can occur. Report severe low mood or suicidal thoughts.
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Contact your doctor if
- Severe low mood, agitation, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behaviour — stop and seek urgent help
- Severe or persistent nausea, skin reactions, or swelling of the face or throat
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Storage
Keep in the original package, away from moisture and direct heat, and out of children's reach. Follow the temperature limit on your pack and do not use it after the expiry date.
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What to expect
Varenicline helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. It works best when you set a quit date and follow the dose escalation. Combining with behavioural support improves success rates.
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