Authored: 22/01/2021
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Varenicline | Generic Champix
Overview
- Helps relieve cravings
- Twice daily maintenance dosage
- Blocks nicotine receptor sites
Overview
Order Varenicline (Generic Champix) Stop Smoking Tablets Online
You can order Varenicline (formerly branded as Champix) from our UK registered online pharmacy and doctor service. While Champix has been discontinued in the UK, generic Varenicline contains the same active ingredient and is equally effective at helping people quit smoking.
After completing an online assessment, our UK-registered GPs will review your suitability for treatment. If approved, your prescription will be passed to our pharmacy team for dispensing and dispatch, with next-day delivery available.
Summary
| Treatment course | 12 week treatment course |
| Mechanism | Reduces nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms |
| Active ingredient | Varenicline |
| Effectiveness | 3x more likely to quit vs no treatment |
| Side effects | Nausea, sleep problems, headaches, abnormal dreams |
| Success rate | 44% quit rate at 12 weeks |
What Is Varenicline?
Varenicline is a prescription-only medication specifically designed to help people quit smoking. It was originally marketed under the brand name Champix but is now available as a generic medication in the UK. It works differently from nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) as it doesn't contain any nicotine.
The medication is particularly effective when combined with behavioral support and a strong commitment to quit smoking. Clinical studies have shown it to be one of the most effective stop-smoking treatments available.
How Does Varenicline Work?
Varenicline works through a dual mechanism of action:
- Nicotine Receptor Partial Agonist: It partially stimulates nicotine receptors in the brain, helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms
- Blocking Effect: It prevents nicotine from binding to these receptors, making smoking less pleasurable if you do smoke
This unique mechanism helps to:
- Reduce the severity of cigarette cravings
- Decrease withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting
- Lower the satisfaction from smoking if you do smoke while taking it
- Help maintain long-term abstinence from smoking
How Effective is Varenicline?
Clinical studies have shown that Varenicline is one of the most effective stop-smoking treatments available:
- Users are 3 times more likely to quit compared to attempting without support
- 44% of users successfully quit at 12 weeks
- 22% remained smoke-free after one year
- More effective than nicotine replacement therapy alone
Success rates are highest when Varenicline is combined with:
- Behavioral support and counseling
- A structured quit plan
- Regular follow-up and monitoring
How to Take Varenicline
Varenicline follows a structured 12-week treatment course:
| Period | Dosage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Days 1-3 | 0.5mg once daily | Initial starting dose |
| Days 4-7 | 0.5mg twice daily | Morning and evening |
| Week 2-12 | 1mg twice daily | Maintenance dose |
Key points for taking Varenicline:
- Set a quit date for 1-2 weeks after starting treatment
- Take with a full glass of water
- Can be taken with or without food
- Space doses at least 8 hours apart
- Complete the full 12-week course for best results
Side Effects
Common side effects of Varenicline include:
- Very common (affecting more than 1 in 10 people):
- Nausea
- Sleep problems
- Abnormal dreams
- Headache
- Common (affecting up to 1 in 10 people):
- Increased appetite
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Digestive issues
Most side effects are mild to moderate and often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. Contact your doctor if side effects are severe or persistent.
Stop Smoking Alternatives
Several alternatives to Varenicline are available:
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT)
- Patches (steady release of nicotine)
- Gum and lozenges (short-term relief)
- Nasal sprays and inhalators (rapid relief)
Other Prescription Medications
- Bupropion (Zyban)
- Nicotine receptor partial agonists
Non-Medication Options
- E-cigarettes
- Behavioral support
- NHS Stop Smoking Services
Written by Qualified Experts
All of our medication and condition content is written by UK qualified pharmacists and doctors.
Reviewed: 27/01/2025
FAQ
General Information
Are Champix and Varenicline the same thing?
Yes, Varenicline is the active ingredient that was in Champix. Champix was the brand name, and Varenicline is the generic version. They contain the same active ingredient and work in the same way to support smoking cessation.
Is Champix still available in the UK?
No, Champix is no longer available in the UK due to a global recall related to impurities. However, generic Varenicline is now available and offers the same clinical effect.
What is Varenicline?
Varenicline is a prescription medicine used to help people stop smoking. It works by binding to nicotine receptors in the brain, which reduces cravings and lessens the pleasure from smoking.
Usage & Dosage
How long do you take Varenicline for?
Varenicline is usually taken for 12 weeks. Some individuals may benefit from a further 12 weeks to help prevent relapse. Treatment length should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Effectiveness & Results
How effective is Varenicline?
Varenicline has been shown in clinical studies to increase the likelihood of quitting smoking by up to three times compared to placebo. Around 44% of users remain smoke-free at 12 weeks when combined with behavioural support.
Can you buy Varenicline over the counter?
No, Varenicline is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. It must be prescribed by a GP or a registered prescribing clinician after a suitability assessment.
How much does Varenicline cost?
Private costs for Varenicline vary, but typical prices are:
- Starter pack (2 weeks): £37.95
- 4‑week pack: £72.90
- 12‑week full course: £195.95
Can I get Varenicline on the NHS?
Yes, Varenicline is available on the NHS. You can access it through your GP, NHS Stop Smoking Services, or select NHS-funded pharmacy schemes.
Side Effects
Champix Side Effects
There can be side effects when taking the tablets. As with any medicine, some side effects are common while others are rarer. Common side effects include sinusitis, decreased or increased appetite, abnormal dreams, headaches, dry mouth.
Less commonly, it can cause serious serious psychiatric side effects. If you notice symptoms such as an agitated, depressed mood or other mood changes, seek advice from a healthcare professional immediately.
Read the patient information leaflet for further information on the possible side effects of Champix.
Reviews
Info Leaflet
Before buying or taking Champix – it is important you read the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL)
