Varenicline
Uses of Varenicline
Varenicline is commonly used for Quitting Smoking, Smoking Addiction
How Varenicline Works
Varenicline is an alpha-4 beta-2 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist which will compete with nicotine in cigarette to bind to the alpha-4 beta-2 receptor. Varenicline will act mildly at this site and relieve the withdrawal symptoms after quitting smoking.
Side Effects of Varenicline
Nausea, Gut disturbances, Headache , Sleepiness, Tiredness, Sleep disturbances, Increased appetite
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
No dose adjustment is needed in patients with mild to moderate kidney impairment. Caution use and dose adjustment may be required in patients with severe kidney impairment and patients requiring haemodialysis.
Alcohol Not Advisable
There is no known interaction between alcohol and Varenicline. There are reports showing the increase of intoxicating effects of alcohol with Varenicline treatment but the causal relationship has not been established. Thus, it is not advisable to consume alcohol with Varenicline simultaneously. Please consult your doctor.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal studies have shown reproductive toxicity but there are a moderate amount of data showing that there is no reproductive toxicity on pregnant women. It is preferable to exercise caution use of Varenicline during pregnancy.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Varenicline may cause side effects such as dizziness, sleepiness and brief loss of consciousness, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Limited Data
Varenicline is safe to use in patients with liver impairment.
Lactation Limited Data
Animal studies have shown Varenicline is excreted in breast milk but there are no data shown in breastfeeding mother. Thus, the decision has to be made whether to discontinue the medication or breastfeeding based on the benefit-risk ratio. Please consult your doctor.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
