How does varenicline work?
When you smoke, you breathe in an addictive chemical called nicotine. This means that when you stop, you start to have withdrawal symptoms.
Varenicline helps stop you smoking by reducing the craving for cigarettes.
However, varenicline alone is unlikely to stop you smoking. Getting support from a local stop smoking service may help you if you have decided to stop.
How long does it take to work?
During the first week of taking varenicline, you’ll slowly increase your dose. This helps to reduce the chance of feeling sick.
After several days, you may notice that you’re craving fewer cigarettes each day.
Are there other treatments that can help me stop smoking?
If varenicline does not work for you, several other treatments are available to buy from pharmacies or shops, or to get on prescription.
The best treatment for you depends on your personal preference, your age or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Having a medical condition will also make a difference.
What NHS services are there to help me stop smoking?
Local stop smoking services are available to help you stop smoking. These free services provide support and effective methods to help you.
Your doctor can refer you, or you can phone a local stop smoking service to make an appointment with an adviser.
Will it affect my contraception?
Varenicline does not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill, progestogen-only pill and emergency contraception.
However, if varenicline makes you sick (vomit) or you have severe, watery diarrhoea, or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraceptive pills may not protect you from pregnancy. Look on the pill packet to find out what to do.
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Can I drive or ride a bike while taking varenicline?
Varenicline can make you feel sleepy, feel dizzy or affect your vision.
If this happens to you, do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery until you feel better.
It’s best not to drive, cycle or use machines or tools until you know how varenicline affects you.
It's an offence to drive a car if your ability to drive safely is affected. It's your responsibility to decide if it's safe to drive. If you're in any doubt, do not drive.
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're unsure whether it's safe for you to drive while taking varenicline.
GOV.UK has more information on the law on drugs and driving.
Can I drink alcohol while taking varenicline?
It’s not currently known if varenicline increases the effects of alcohol, but there’s a chance you may get more of the side effects of alcohol. You may want to stop drinking, or limit how much you drink, while you’re taking varenicline.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
You can eat and drink normally while taking varenicline.