Champix tablets contain the active ingredient varenicline, which is a medicine used to help people who are addicted to nicotine to give up smoking. It acts in the brain, but is not the same as nicotine replacement therapy. Varenicline is a type of medicine called a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor partial agonist. This means that it acts on the same receptors in the brain as nicotine does.

The approval of Champix (varenicline) was based on the comprehensive clinical trial program including four pivotal trials involving approximately 4,500 cigarette smokers.

Varenicline works by stimulating the nicotinic receptors in the brain. This produces an effect that relieves the craving and withdrawal symptoms you can get when you stop smoking. At the same time, varenicline blocks nicotine from acting on the receptors. This prevents any nicotine inhaled in tobacco smoke from having a rewarding and enjoyable effect. However, it is recommended that you don’t smoke while you are taking this medicine.

You should seek help and support as much as possible while giving up smoking, even while taking this medicine, as this will increase your chance of success. Your doctor, practice nurse or local pharmacist can all provide this support.