Varenicline

Varenicline (Generic Champix) Online UK

Champix is a commonly used medicine to help people stop smoking. It contains the active ingredient varenicline. This is used as a stop smoking aid to help with cravings and also help with withdrawal symptoms that can happen when you stop smoking. Varenicline is a prescription-only drug and is not available to buy over the counter.  

The brand version, Champix, is currently out of stock nationwide and there is no confirmed date for its return. However, the patent for Champix expired in September 2021 and it’s likely that a cheaper, generic varenicline product will soon become available in the UK.

As soon as a Champix generic version is available, we will add it to our list of products to aid our patients who wish to stop smoking.

How does it work?

Varenicline does not contain nicotine and is not classed as a nicotine product like nicotine patches or nicotine gum. It works by blocking receptors in the brain and mimicking the effect of nicotine.

By doing so, it helps to reduce nicotine cravings and lessen withdrawal symptoms when you stop smoking. Withdrawal effects seen with smoking include feeling irritable, feeling depressed, difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, and cigarette cravings.

Although varenicline is an effective aid to stopping smoking, you will still need to be motivated to stop and break the habit. 

Varenicline alternatives

Another smoking cessation prescription medicine is bupropion (Zyban). It’s not certain exactly how it works, but it seems to affect the part of the brain responsible for addiction. The course of treatment usually lasts around 7 to 9 weeks.

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is a common aid for people trying to stop smoking. NRT contains nicotine, which is the addictive component in cigarettes. This allows people to replace harmful cigarettes with products that just contain nicotine. 

You can buy nicotine replacement products over the counter and from our online shop. NRT comes in the form of patches, lozenges, gums, sprays, inhalers and more.

Is there a generic version of Champix?

Currently, there is no generic version of Champix in the UK. However, the drug patent expired in September 2021 and generic varenicline (Champix) will likely become available in the UK soon.  

In the USA, a generic varenicline tablet was approved in August 2021 and is available in two strengths: 0.5mg and 1mg.

Is Zyban the same as Champix?

Zyban is not the same as Champix. Zyban is the brand name for a medicine called bupropion. This can also be prescribed to aid people who are trying to stop smoking.

However, it works differently from Champix. It’s thought to affect the addiction centre of the brain to help reduce cravings when stopping smoking.

Is varenicline available on the NHS?

Varenicline is available on the NHS under the brand name Champix. It’s been approved as a treatment for people hoping to stop smoking and it can be prescribed by NHS doctors in the UK.

However, there is currently a worldwide shortage of Champix and there is no information on when it will become available again.

Can you buy varenicline over the counter in the UK?

Varenicline in the UK is a prescription-only medicine. This means that you cannot buy varenicline over the counter. The branded version, Champix, is available to buy online from certain registered online doctor and pharmacy services, like Simple Online Pharmacy.

Varenicline side effects

As with any medicine, varenicline has the possibility of causing side effects. The most common side effects include throat and nose inflammation, trouble sleeping, headaches, abnormal dreams, and nausea. Other side effects include appetite changes, cough, and taste changes. See the patient information leaflet for Champix for a complete list of possible side effects. 

Other side effects are rarer but can be serious. This includes stroke, seizures, allergic reactions, suicidal thoughts, and changes in behaviour. If you notice any unusual or serious side effects, you should report the side effects and seek immediate medical attention.

How to take varenicline

The following is taken from guidelines for the use of Champix.

When planning to use varenicline tablets to help quit smoking, you should decide on a date in the second week of your 12-week course on which to stop smoking. This gives you time to mentally prepare to quit and also ensures there’s enough varenicline in your body to help with cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

The usual Champix (varenicline) dose for stopping smoking is:

• Day 1 - 3 - Take ONE 0.5mg tablet ONCE a day
• Day 4 - 7 - Take TWO 0.5mg tablets TWICE a day
• Weeks 2 - 12 - Take TWO 1mg tablets TWICE a day

It’s important to complete the full 12 weeks of treatment when stopping smoking. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a further 12-week course if they think it will lower your risk of starting smoking again.

Varenicline warnings

This medicine isn’t suitable for everyone to take. Anyone who is allergic to varenicline or any of the ingredients in the tablets should not take this medicine. It should also be used in caution in people with a history of psychiatric illness and seizures. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice if you’re unsure about taking varenicline.