Nicotine, one of the major components in cigarettes, causes chemoreceptors in our brain to release dopamine, another chemical in the brain which causes elevation of mood when cigarette smoke is being inhaled. When an abrupt cessation of smoking is done, the sudden depletion of dopamine production is what sets off the withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms may include crabbiness, headaches, nausea and vomiting, inability to concentrate in your work, and such.
There are many alternative ways to get the nicotine the body pines for without using cigarettes. Out in the market are nicotine patches, gums, and even pills such as bupropion (Zyban) which is an antidepressant that may assist with stopping the use of tobacco. These products may continue in releasing dopamine to the brain but at a lower level than before. This way, withdrawal symptoms will not be as severe as it was when smoking cessation was done.
Chantix works in the same way. With an intake of Chantix, release of low levels of dopamine is stimulated to the brain but it also aids in the blocking of nicotine receptors. If you take Chantix and then decide to smoke again, the chemoreceptors in your brain will not be as strongly stimulated by nicotine as it was in the past. Smoking will not have the same gratifying effect on you as it did before.
Recommended use of Chantix would be a week before the start of the day you would quit. A prescription of 12 weeks is best whilst you take one pill a day in the start of your treatment and then twice in the succeeding days. If no lapses within that 12 week period occurs, then an added 12 weeks of Chantix intake may also be suggested for a better chance of being smoke-free for good.
Some manifestations of side effects may be reported which includes flatulence, insomnia, headache, nausea, and dizziness. These may be lessened as your body responds to the medication and its own adaptive mechanisms. Taking Chantix with a full stomach and a tall glass of water may reduce the risk of nausea. Chantix is not prescribed for pregnant women, those who are planning to be pregnant or if you are a breastfeeding mother. Further studies are being held for these subjects.
