Chantix, a Guide to the Benefits, Effects and Treament Usage

On May 11, 2006, the FDA approved a new form of treatment in the fight against smoking related deaths and disease. In an effort to aide smokers in the cessation of cigarette smoking, the FDA has approved Chantix tablets as a new form of treatment in the fight to ease withdrawal symptoms of smoking cessation. With appropriate dosing, monitoring of contraindications and knowledge of side effects, you may very well have found the key to a less traumatic process in the effort to discontinue smoking.

Chantix, a product of Pfizer, was approved by the FDA on May 11, 2006. Designed to aide a smoker in the cessation of cigarette smoking, Chantix will not be available in a generic form for quite some time however, the effectiveness may be well worth the cost involved with a brand name drug purchase. Chantix works through binding to the brain receptors activated during cigarette smoking. In doing so, a small amount of nicotine is released which, in turn, stimulates the “reward pathway” in the brain. The advantage is in the medication’s ability to to ease symptoms of withdrawal as well as acting on the sites of the brain to prevent release “reward pathway” chemicals associated with cigarette smoking.

Dosing of Chantix tablets will vary depending on the need of the patient. However, the FDA is recommending a dosing in a 12 week program with an extension of an additional 12 weeks, as needed. Physical nicotine dependence is reportedly a primary reason smokers choose to continue smoking. With the body’s continual addiction to nicotine, smokers find the withdrawal symptoms to be a primary reason to avoid cessation. For those motivated to quit smoking, Chantix will provide the benefits of reduction in the withdrawal symptoms.

Chantix, used in a smoking cessation program, does not come without side effects. However, most side effects will dissipate as the treatment program is continued over 12 weeks. Common side effects may include nausea, headache, vomiting, gas, insomnia and abnormal sleep patterns. Some patients may even develop a change in taste perception as the taste buds work to regain sensitivity. If side effect symptoms are severe, consult your physician immediately.

With regard to contraindications, the drug will be classified as a Category C in terms of pregnancy as the effects of the drug are not known in a fetus. However, the impact of smoking, while pregnant, may prove to be more detrimental than a medication supported cessation program involving Chantix.

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death. When making a decision to discontinue smoking, consider seeking the medical support found in Chantix tablets.