Anti-Smoking Tablet Better than a Patch
Two years ago the FDA approved Chantix (Varenicline) oral tablets
for people 18 years of age and older who want to stop smoking. This drug
is different than other smoking cessation products in that it contains no
nicotine; but when taken, it targets the same receptors in the body that
nicotine targets. Conclusions of previous clinical trials indicate that Chantix
is thought to block nicotine from reaching these receptors. The effect on
smokers is that the pleasure received from smoking or the sense of calm
and relief when lighting up is less. In addition, it is reported that withdrawal
from nicotine is lessened. While dosing may vary, white Chantix
tablets are taken for a few days, followed by a blue Chantix tablets.
In a recent study of over 700 smokers, Chantix was compared to the
nicotine patch. Either Chantix was taken for 12 weeks or a nicotine patch
was worn for 10 weeks. Over 50% of those who took Chantix reported
that they were cigarette-free during the last month of study compared to
43% of those on the nicotine patch. The most common side effect reported
by those who took Chantix was nausea.