Cranky. Cravings. Constipation…and more. Anyone who has tried to quit smoking knows just how difficult the process can be. In fact, most smokers try seven times or more before they can kick the habit. This is because nicotine is a powerfully addictive drug. Chantix, one of seven prescription medications available to help smokers quit, has had mixed reviews concerning its safety and effectiveness.
The University of Wisconsin Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention (CTRI) explains that Chantix is a prescription-only medication that helps smokers quit in two ways. The medication blocks some of the rewarding effects of nicotine (the addictive drug in tobacco products), and at the same time it tackles the withdrawal most people feel after they quit.
Easing withdrawal symptoms can certainly boost the morale of someone who is desperately trying to quit. Many describe that what they need from a prescription medication is something to take the edge off. Also, by taking away some of the positive effects of nicotine, it follows that smokers should lessen their dependence on the nicotine high.
Chantix, as stated above, must be prescribed by your doctor. It is a series of pills taken over a period of twelve weeks. The company recommends that the full twelve weeks be finished, even if a person can quit in the first few weeks. Also stressed was the fact that doses should be taken after eating, with a full 8 ounce glasses of water.
As with any medication, there are side effects. Using Chantix can cause nausea, skin problems, allergic reactions, and sleep problems; however, the most controversial side effect concerns changes in behavior.
CNN Money states that “The FDA and manufacturer on Jan. 17, 2008 added a warning for healthcare providers to use caution prescribing Chantix for patients with pre-existing psychiatric conditions, and to monitor all patients using Chantix for psychological symptoms.†What this means is that some people who take Chantix may commit suicide.
But what about the drug’s effectiveness? A study funded by Pfizer, and conducted by Dr. Douglas Jorenby of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, shows that during the twelve weeks that patients were on the drug a little less than half were able to quit smoking. This seems positive, but after one year the number of smokers who have still quit falls by half to roughly one in four.
What a person who wants to quit smoking must remember is that breaking the addiction to nicotine is hard. It has even been compared to breaking an addiction to heroin. Nicotine is that powerful.
CTRI states that “there’s no magic medication to cure addiction to nicotine; however, medications can increase your chances of quitting two- or three-fold.â€
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Chantix for use by Americans. This says a lot, as they are a trusted institution, one that looks out for the well-being of citizens. Those struggling to quit smoking may find success with this medication.
It all comes down to weighing the benefits against your particular risk factors. Therefore, it’s important to discuss any medication with your doctor to be sure you’re using it safely, at the correct dosage and for the appropriate duration. And if you decide to use Chantix, any unusual changes in behavior need to be reported to the doctor immediately.
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