Common use
Varnitrip (Varenicline) is a smoking cessation aid that is used alongside education and counseling to help people stop smoking. Varnitrip works by binding to nicotinic receptors, stimulating these receptors at a much lower level than nicotine, while at the same time preventing nicotine from binding to these same receptors. This decreases nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms that happen when people stop smoking. It belongs to the class of medicines called smoking cessation aids.
Dosage and direction
Varnitrip is an oral tablet that is taken twice a day. The most common way to start taking varenicline is at least one week before you quit, at a low dose (varenicline 0.5 mg), which is gradually increased over 8 days to varenicline 1 mg twice a day. Take Varnitrip with food or soon after eating and with a full glass of water to minimize potential nausea from the medications.
Precautions
Before taking Varnitrip (varenicline), tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had depression or other mental health problems. Also tell your healthcare provider about any symptoms you had during other times you tried to quit smoking, with or without varenicline.
Tell your healthcare provider if you: use other treatments to quit smokingж have kidney problems or get kidney dialysis (your healthcare provider may prescribe a lower dose of varenicline for you); have a history of seizures; drink alcohol; have heart or blood; vessel problems; have any other medical conditions; are pregnant or planning to become pregnant; are breastfeeding.
Contraindications
This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to any component of Varenicline.
Patients with severe renal impairment need to avoid this medication.
It should also be avoided by individuals with a history of seizures.
This medicine is intended for use in adults. Specifically, it is not approved for use in children due to the lack of established safety and efficacy.
Possible side effect
Side effects of Varnitrip: Nausea; Insomnia and abnormal dreams; Constipation; Vomiting; Drowsiness.
Drug interaction
This medicine may interact with nicotine replacement therapies (such as nicotine patches and gums), which are also used for smoking cessation but are not recommended for combined use.
It may affect how blood thinners like warfarin (such as Coumadin) work, particularly as smoking cessation can alter blood levels.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Varnitrip, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Overdose
An overdose of Varnitrip may intensify its side effects such as nausea, sleep disturbances, and unusual dreams. If suspected, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
Storage
Store at room temperature, between 68 to 77 F (20 to 25 C). Keep out of the reach of children.
