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Chantix Safety

Chantix, a commercial form of the drug varenicline, is a smoking cessation medication that achieves its effects by reducing the pleasurable brain effects of nicotine. Chantix use presents several potential health risks.

  1. Mood Disturbances

    • Individuals taking Chantix may experience significant changes in mood or behavior, according to Medline Plus. These effects may include depression, hostility, agitation, and suicidal thoughts, planning or actions.

    Varying Effects

    • Serious mood changes related to Chantix can start when first using the product, several weeks after beginning varenicline use or after stopping use, reports Medline Plus.

    Additional Effects

    • Drugs.com cites additional potential serious side effects of Chantix use that include severe blistering or peeling skin, red skin rash, fever, headaches and sore throat.

    Reporting Side Effects

    • Drugs.com and Medline Plus note that Chantix users experiencing mood disturbances or the other symptoms listed above should contact their doctors immediately.

    Using Other Medications

    • Medline Plus recommends that if you are considering using Chantix, tell your doctor about other medications you are taking, including anticoagulants and other forms of smoking cessation products. In some cases, doctors may need to adjust dosages of these medications for Chantix users.

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