An update on Champix
Hello everyone,
Thanks for all your stories and comments about the pros and cons of Champix.
As you know the process of quitting smoking is different for everyone. There are many different methods that people use to quit, some of which include:
• going cold turkey
• using support services like iCanQuit and Quitline
• using NRT (nicotine replacement therapy) products such as patches, lozenges etc
• using prescribed medication such as Champix.
Many people find prescribed quit medication like Champix really useful in helping them to quit smoking. But as with any medication, there can be side effects. It is really important to discuss these potential side effects with your GP or health professional. You can also call NSW Quitline on 137848. The side effects don’t affect everyone who uses the medication but you need to be aware up-front so you can minimise any potential risks to you.
Although we don’t often engage in the iCanQuit forum, we think it’s important that you have access to current information about Champix. This will help you make an informed decisions about whether or not Champix is right for you. We must stress again that Champix is a prescription only medicine, so if you’re thinking about using this drug it is essential to talk to your doctor to decide if it’s right for you.
If you’d like to do some further reading about Champix, information is available from NPS MedicineWise:
http://www.nps.org.au/publications/consumer/medicine-update/2011/varenicline
http://www.nps.org.au/medicines/poisoning-toxicity-and-substance-dependence/smoking-alcohol-and-drug-dependence-medicines/varenicline/champix-tablets
You’ll find more detailed information available about the different quit methods in the Quit Guide tab of iCanQuit.
Thanks,
The iCanQuit team
Honestly, I do not know how you can justify taking another drug to replace nicotine. I find reading about the side effects quite horrific. The nightmares seem frightening and not a desirable way to start a journey of quitting. In fact it suggests a quitter is dependent on another drug just to replace the absence of nicotine. Why you would want to promote this replacement drug is beyond me. This is the first time I have denounced a remedy. Insidious...
yeah my Dr kept trying to push me champix, patches etc.. I said when its time I will stop, and I have now for 56 days.
I sure am not telling any one how to do what but it wasn't for me.
IC
Doctors do not understand this addiction. They have probably never used nicotine in any form. They are told by the drug companies that Champix will "fix" the addiction. Sorry, too easy a fix as we all know. Just write the prescription easy way out. And that is what we want, an easy way out.I am glad that many on this site have quit using champix.l More power to you.
That could not be my road. Scared of the consequences. Mental Health issues due to work.Have to think that another drug that I didn't understand could control my brain.
Yes , put nicotine in for years, too many.
Just wish to say that the understanding of this addiction is only done well on this site. With support from fellows.
It is not done well with NRT, Champix etc.
Government support that probably costs a huge amount of money , quite frankly, does nothing.
This site is the best thing that can be done. Thank you for keeping it going, it will save lives.
Thank you Moderator for the information, found it very interesting.
Anne55 I agree this site has helped me immensely.
I did take Champix I am about to finish the full course, I haven't experienced any of the bad side effects only sleep issues ( not dreams/ nightmare's) that some people experience just through withdrawal.
We all do whatever is best for us to rid us of nicotine, please don't judge me for my choices.
Not judging. Glad you have quit. Sorry if I offended you. Storm.That was not my intention. If Champix is good, go for it
I wish everyone success in their quit journey. Nevertheless am concerned about those on Champix and we all need to hear long term if his method worked. Wonder if long term quitters could return and let others know of the outcome when started wth Champix or any other NRT.
new boy to the club. have smoked 50 years. sick of it. tried all aids, now on champix. no willpower at all.