Varenicline - Overview

Varenicline is a prescription medication used as an aid to smoking cessation. Varenicline was previously sold under the brand name Chantix but now generic varenicline is the form most commonly prescribed. People who need a varenicline prescription can use Push Health to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe varenicline when appropriate to do so.

What Is Varenicline Used For?

Varenicline prescription medication, previously sold under the brand Chantix, is a medication used in helping people with smoking cessation. Varenicline medication belongs to a class of medications known as nicotinic receptor partial agonists. Varenicline binds to α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain. As a partial agonist it provides some stimulation (reducing withdrawal symptoms) while blocking nicotine from fully activating the receptors (reducing the rewarding effects of smoking). It is generally more effective than bupropion or nicotine replacement therapy alone, especially when combined with behavioral counseling.

Varenicline is FDA-approved as an aid to smoking cessation. It is not currently FDA-approved for quitting smokeless tobacco products (e.g. Zyn).

Varenicline - Dosage and Cost

Varenicline is typically prescribed using standard protocols although these may be customized at times based on the judgment of the prescribing medical provider.

• Days 1-3: 0.5 mg once daily
• Days 4-7: 0.5 mg twice daily
• Day 8 onward: 1 mg twice daily

Treatment usually continues for 12 weeks. An additional 12-week course may be offered to successful quitters to reduce relapse risk. A flexible "reduce-to-quit" approach is also an option for patients not ready to set an immediate quit date. Take each dose with food and a full glass of water to help minimize nausea.

Generic varenicline is substantially less expensive than the former branded Chantix and costs roughly $50 to $150 per month. Many insurance plans and Medicaid programs cover tobacco-cessation medications with little or no cost-sharing under preventive-care requirements. Savings cards and pharmacy coupons can further reduce out-of-pocket costs.

Can I Buy Varenicline Online?

Varenicline requires a prescription and is not available over the counter. People who need a varenicline prescription can use Push Health to connect with a medical provider who can prescribe varenicline medication - including starter packs and maintenance tablets - when appropriate to do so.

Varenicline - Side Effects

Varenicline prescription medication can cause side effects such as nausea, vivid or unusual dreams, constipation, gas, vomiting, headache and insomnia. People taking varenicline should be monitored for mood changes or other psychiatric symptoms. Dose adjustments might be necessary for people with kidney impairment. It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking varenicline. People with a known allergy to varenicline should not use the medication. Prior to use, discuss any questions with a medical provider.

How to Get a Varenicline Prescription with Push Health

1. Complete a brief health intake. Answer a few questions about your smoking history, current medications, and other relevant medical or psychiatric history.
2. Connect with a licensed medical provider. A provider will review your information and evaluate whether varenicline is appropriate, including the best quit strategy and duration. Same-day consultations are available.
3. Receive your prescription electronically. If varenicline is appropriate, your provider will send a prescription to a pharmacy of your choice - no office visit required.
4. Begin your quit plan. Start varenicline 1 to 2 weeks before your target quit date. Take it with food and water and use counseling support if possible.

No health insurance or subscription is required. Medical providers are available now.

More Varenicline Information

• Varenicline - Medline