Champix side effects

While some prescribers may not actively advise against drinking alcohol whilst taking Champix, there is still a chance that the two substances can negatively interact.

Some people who have mixed alcohol and Champix have reported that their tolerance for alcohol is much lower, and they become intoxicated at a much more elevated rate. Additionally, they report that their potential for alcohol-induced blackouts increases, and they can become aggressive or rowdy more easily. At the very least, it’s wise to limit alcohol intake whilst using Champix.

That said, some studies have suggested that varenicline can help reduce alcohol intake in alcohol-dependent individuals, quelling an individual's cravings for alcohol in a similar way to how it staves off nicotine cravings. However, there is insufficient evidence to support this hypothesis.

One of the potential side effects of Champix that causes people some concern is weight gain. However, it’s worth noting that quitting smoking can cause weight gain on its own. This is because smoking suppresses appetite and speeds up metabolism.

Additionally, whilst weight gain is listed as a potential side effect of Champix, very few people do actually put on weight whilst taking the treatment. In fact, some studies regarding Champix weight gain have shown that users do not gain more weight on Champix than without.

In some cases, Champix can cause adverse gastrointestinal effects, such as constipation, but this is quite an uncommon side effect. Quitting smoking can also cause constipation, it’s not always easy to work out the underlying cause. One study showed that one in 24 subjects treated with varenicline (the main ingredient found in Champix) experienced constipation.

A concern amongst many individuals thinking about taking Champix is the prospect of a loss of libido.

However, a decreased libido is an uncommon side effect experienced by roughly one in 1000 users of Champix. Additionally, in those rare cases that Champix does affect sex drive, it can also lead to an increased libido.

It has been reported that Champix can cause issues with sleep. However, it’s important to remember that restlessness and difficulty sleeping can also be generic symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.

Some studies have found that abnormal dreams and sleeping patterns are common side effects of taking varenicline, but these symptoms often subside after the first few weeks after beginning treatment. Taking your evening dosage immediately after your evening meal and not straight before bedtime can help reduce the sleep-related side effects of Champix.

That said, it’s essential to talk to one of our doctors or consult your GP if you feel these symptoms becoming more extreme or if you begin to experience sleep aggression or sleepwalking.