Chantix is a prescription medication that helps in quitting smoking. It is more effective than Zyban, another nonnicotine prescription medicine used for smoking cessation. Chantix is very effective in controlling smoking as it reduces the urge of smoking.

Chantix is a drug that has no nicotine but works as the same receptors as nicotine. When smoking, nicotine attaches to these receptors when smoke is inhaled. With this, a chemical called dopamine is released in the brain. Chantix basically activates these receptors and blocks nicotine from attaching on them.

When taking Chantix, take it after eating and with a full glass of water. If a dose is missed, you have to take it as soon as possible. however if it is close to the next dose, you just have to take the next regular dose and forget about the missed dose. Before starting Chantix, you have to inform your doctor of any medications you are taking. This is especially so if you take insulin, asthma medication and blood thinners as when you stop smoking, there is a change on the effects of this medication on your body.

Chantix has to be started by setting a quit date and to then start taking it a week before the quit date. It is okay to smoke in this period and if you don’t stop smoking on the quit date, you can try again. It usually takes a person 12 weeks to stop smoking; and if you stop smoking by 12 weeks, the doctor may prescribe another 12 weeks of medication to ensure you remain cigarette free.