Varenicline quit-smoking guide
The standard first-week titration, quit-date planning, 12-week course, and support for nausea, sleep, mood, and craving changes.
Come usare
- 01
Passo 1
Swallow after food with water
Take each tablet whole after food with a full glass of water to reduce nausea. Use the starter pack in order and do not combine with another quit-smoking medicine unless the prescriber has planned it.
- 02
Passo 2
Pair tablets with a quit plan
Set the agreed target quit date, usually 1–2 weeks after starting, and use behavioural support for triggers and cravings. A flexible quit date within the first 5 weeks may be agreed in some cases.
Schema posologico
- 01
Passo 1
Days 1–3: 0.5 mg once daily
Take one 0.5 mg tablet each day. This gradual start improves tolerance.
- 02
Passo 2
Days 4–7: 0.5 mg twice daily
Take one 0.5 mg tablet in the morning and one in the evening, spaced as directed.
- 03
Passo 3
Day 8 onward: usually 1 mg twice daily
Continue the prescribed maintenance dose for the planned course, commonly 12 weeks. Kidney function or side effects may require a lower dose, and a further course is considered individually.
Effetti collaterali
Nausea and digestive effects
Nausea is common, especially after dose increases. Taking tablets after food with water can help. Constipation, diarrhoea, indigestion, dry mouth, or appetite changes can occur.
Sleep, mood, and behaviour
Vivid dreams, insomnia, sleepiness, and headache are common. Mood or behaviour can change during treatment or nicotine withdrawal; involve supportive people and report concerning changes promptly.
04 · Quando contattare il medico
Contatta il medico se
- Thoughts of self-harm, severe agitation, psychosis, a seizure, chest pain, or stroke symptoms — seek urgent help
- A severe skin reaction, facial or throat swelling, or breathing difficulty
- Nausea, insomnia, mood effects, or kidney-related concerns make it hard to continue, or smoking has not stopped as planned
Conservazione
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.
Cosa aspettarsi
Varenicline partly stimulates nicotine receptors, reducing withdrawal and the reward from smoking. It improves the chance of stopping when combined with motivation and behavioural support, but no course guarantees abstinence. Review slips without judgement and adjust the plan with the clinician.