Champix

What is Champix?

Champix is the brand name for varenicline, which is a high-affinity partial agonist for the α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor subtype (nACh).

It is used to help smokers give up by stopping them from experiencing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. The usual dose is 0.5mg or 1mg.

You must be over 18 and have a prescription to buy Champix.

What is Champix used to treat?

Champix tablets are an effective medication for helping people to quit smoking, designed to reduce the craving and withdrawal symptoms that people often experience when they are trying to give up. Champix helps to block the effects of nicotine in the body.

Smoking is a highly addictive habit, and many people find it very difficult to give up without experiencing withdrawal and cravings. Champix tablets also reduce the pleasurable effects of cigarettes and other tobacco products, making it easier for the user to stop smoking.

Treatment usually lasts for 12 weeks.

How does Champix stop my smoking cravings?

Champix contains varenicline as its active ingredient, which works to block the effects of nicotine within your body. You brain has receptors for nicotine and when you inhale smoke from a cigarette, the nicotine is attached to them. This causes the brain to release dopamine. Dopamine is a chemical that creates a temporary pleasurable feeling in the body, which your body wants to feel again – this is why people find it hard to stop smoking.

Champix tablets are believed to work by stopping the nicotine from being able to attach itself to the receptors, which reduces your need to smoke and helps to limit withdrawal symptoms.

Who can take Champix?

Champix is an effective medication to help people quit smoking for good, but it may not be suitable for everyone.

Champix is only available on prescription to adults who are at least 18 years old.

Before you use this medication, you should inform your doctor if you suffer from any of the following problems:

• Heart or blood vessel problems
• Depression or any other mental health problems
• Epilepsy
• Seizures

Common adverse reactions of taking Champix include feeling tired and nausea. Not everyone will get them, but if you do feel either of these while using Champix, you are not advised to drive or operate machinery until you feel better.

Can you buy Champix over the counter?

You must have a prescription for Champix, so it is not for sale over the counter. If you feel you need this medication to give up smoking for good, speak to your doctor.

Can you buy Champix online in the UK?

You can buy Champix online from Medicine Direct by completing an online consultation. As this medication is prescription-only, one of our certified doctors, pharmacists or prescribers will need to ensure that it is suitable for you to take. All you need to do is answer some confidential questions about your condition.

To make sure you only buy safe and genuine medication, only order it from a regulated online pharmacy like Medicine Direct.

Champix alternatives

Aside from taking a medication like Champix, smokers who are trying to give up can also try the following:

• Nicotine gum
• Nicotine patches
• Nicotine inhalers
• Nicotine nasal sprays
• Therapy

If you are struggling to quit, speak to your doctor.