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References:

1. Champix Data Sheet
2. Champix Consumer Medicine Information
3. McEwan A et al. Manual of Smoking Cessation. A guide for counsellors and practitioners. 2006, Addiction Press: Blackwell Publishing
4. Pharmac Special Authority SA1161

Champix is a prescription medicine that contains 0.5 mg or 1 mg of varenicline. It is used to help adults stop smoking. 

Champix has risks and benefits. Consult your doctor to see if Champix is right for you and use only as directed. Do not take Champix if you are allergic to varenicline or any of the other tablet ingredients. If you get swelling of the face, mouth, throat or a skin rash, stop taking Champix and see your doctor immediately. Tell your doctor if you have ever had depression or other mental health problems. Stop taking Champix and see your doctor if you or your family notice any changes in your behaviour, mood or thinking, including self-harm or harming others. Tell your doctor if you have chest pain or any heart problems. There have been reports of heart attack and strokes in some people taking Champix. Heart attacks and strokes can also be caused by smoking. Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems, a history of seizures, drink alcohol, are pregnant, intend to become pregnant or are breastfeeding. Tell your doctor if you take any other medicines. 

Common side effects include nausea, headache, sleep problems, signs and symptoms of a cold, stomach or bowel problems, change in taste, dry mouth, muscle or joint pain, change in appetite, feeling tired, weight gain, shortness of breath, rash, toothache, chest pain and itching. If you have other side effects see your doctor. 

Champix is fully funded under special authority. A pharmacy charge and normal doctor's fees apply.