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VVarenicline

Varenicline

Doctor item
From £36.00

A free online consultation is required before this treatment can be supplied.

Frequently asked questions

Can you smoke while taking Varenicline?

You can smoke while taking Varenicline in such a way that you start taking Varenicline 1-2 weeks before you set a quit date. This will adjust your body to the new medicine and gradually reduce cravings, helping you quit smoking effectively.

Is Varenicline an antidepressant?

Varenicline is not an antidepressant and does not treat mood disorders. It is a smoking cessation medicine that targets nicotine receptors in your brain and blocks the rewarding effects of smoking.

However, Varenicline may have the potential as an antidepressant and treat nicotine withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, depression, irritability, and sleep disturbances. 

How successful is Varenicline?

Varenicline is a safe and highly effective smoking cessation drug. It has a double to triple success rate than other stop-smoking medications, helping to quit smoking permanently.  

How long does it take for Varenicline to start working?

Varenicline starts working within 1-2 weeks after taking it, offering noticeable results, and reducing cravings, and withdrawal symptoms. It is recommended to take Varenicline 1 week before your quit date for optimal results.

Can Varenicline help me quit smoking permanently?

Varenicline is a highly effective drug and lets you quit smoking permanently. It is easier to stick with it, showing the best results when combined with behavioral support.

What happens if I smoke while on Varenicline?

If you smoke while taking Varenicline, it does not harm you but reduces the effectiveness of medicine in helping you quit.

So, start taking Varenicline tablets and quit smoking gradually over 12 weeks of treatment in such a way that, from 1-4 weeks, try to smoke half of your normal number of cigarettes per day. 

From 5-8 weeks, smoke one quarter, and from 9-12 weeks, smoke fewer cigarettes until you are not smoking at all.

Varenicline vs NRT: Which is better?

Varenicline and NRT are effective stop-smoking medications. Varenicline blocks nicotine receptors, while NRT offers controlled doses of nicotine, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. However, Varenicline shows higher quit rates than NRT; the selection depends on your preferences and current condition.

Is Varenicline available in the UK?

Varenicline is a prescription drug available in the UK, both in local pharmacies and online. Consult your doctor for the latest information about its availability. However, you can buy it online from Ashcroft Pharmacy. We offer free consultation and affordable rates. 

What drug is similar to Varenicline?

Bupropion is similar to Varenicline, marketed as Zyban. They are effective drugs but their mode of action is different. Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) while Varenicline is a partial nicotine receptor agonist.

However, the selection depends on your preferences, medical condition, and current needs. 

Does Varenicline increase dopamine?

Varenicline increases dopamine levels. It is a partial agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors and reduces cravings by stimulating the release of dopamine. It blocks nicotine’s full effects, helping you quit smoking permanently. 

What is the brand name of Bupropion?

Bupropion is marketed under the brand names Zyban and Wellbutrin. It treats SAD (seasonal affective disorder) and depression and helps you stop smoking.

How long is Varenicline used for?

Doctors prescribe Varenicline for 12 weeks. If you can quit smoking during this time, the doctor may prescribe you Varenicline for the next 12 weeks, if needed.

Is it safe to take Varenicline?

Varenicline is a safe and effective drug for smoking cessation. However, it may cause some side effects such as vivid dreams, mood swings, nausea, or new or worsening heart or blood vessel problems.

So, before taking Varenicline, consult your doctor about its usage, risks, and dosage.

Who can use Varenicline?

Varenicline is best for those who want to quit smoking as it works differently than other stop-smoking drugs. It is also suitable for those who have tried other smoking cessation treatment options and are unable to quit. 

Which antidepressant is best for quitting smoking?

Bupropion (Zyban) is the best antidepressant for quitting smoking. Bupropion alters brain chemicals such as norepinephrine and dopamine, reducing smoking urges.

However, consult your doctor about whether Bupropion is best for you. 

Is Varenicline an agonist or antagonist?

Varenicline is a partial agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, helping you quit smoking. It stimulates these receptors, especially the α4β2 subtype, to a lesser degree, blocking nicotine's ability to activate them, reducing cravings, and alleviating withdrawal symptoms.

Is Varenicline a beta blocker?

Beta-blockers block beta-adrenergic receptors and affect blood vessels and the heart. Varenicline is a partial agonist, not a beta blocker, helping people to quit smoking permanently. 

What is Epibatidine used for?

Epibatidine is an alkaloid derived from certain frog species. It is known for its pain-relieving or analgesic effects. However, its high toxicity limits its use. 

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Written and reviewed by our qualified team — Mr Suhail Jamil, Superintendent Pharmacist (GPhC 2069518).