Tag: Varenicline

In July 2021, pharmaceutical company Pfizer voluntarily recalled several lots of its popular smoking cessation medication, Chantix (varenicline), after discovering unacceptable levels of a nitrosamine impurity. This expanded recall eventually included all lots of the brand-name product, which is no longer available, leading many to ask, 'What smoking cessation medication is being recalled?'.

According to a 2025 study in the journal *JAMA*, the smoking cessation drug varenicline has shown significant effectiveness in helping young adults quit nicotine vaping. While there is no single FDA-approved medication specifically for e-cigarettes, doctors often prescribe medications and Nicotine Replacement Therapy to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

According to a 2025 study in *JAMA*, varenicline (generic Chantix), combined with counseling, significantly increased abstinence rates among young adults attempting to quit vaping. This evidence suggests that for many, the answer to **does Chantix work for vaping** is a promising yes, though it is not yet officially FDA-approved for this specific purpose.

In 2022, while over half of adult smokers in the U.S. attempted to quit, less than 10% succeeded [1.6.2]. A promising new medication may soon offer help. So, what is the new no smoking pill? It's a plant-based drug called cytisinicline [1.2.2].

Worldwide, tobacco use causes more than 7 million deaths per year [1.2.2]. Counteracting its influence is crucial for health. This guide explores how to counteract the effects of nicotine through medical, behavioral, and lifestyle interventions. [1.4.1, 1.6.2]

Nearly half (48%) of young nicotine users aged 18-24 are making quitting a priority [1.9.2]. For those wondering **what counteracts smoking**, a combination of pharmacological aids, behavioral therapies, and lifestyle adjustments offers the most effective path to quitting and reversing its damage [1.2.2].

Chronic nicotine exposure does not permanently destroy nicotine receptors, but instead causes their number to increase and become desensitized, which drives dependence. This article clarifies the common misconception behind "what kills nicotine receptors" by explaining how these critical brain structures are affected by long-term smoking and return to normal levels after quitting.

In 2021, manufacturer Pfizer voluntarily recalled all lots of the brand-name medication Chantix (varenicline), leaving many to question, “Do they still prescribe Chantix for smoking?”. While the brand-name product was permanently discontinued, generic versions of varenicline are still widely prescribed and considered safe and effective by regulatory bodies.

Following its recall in 2021 due to unacceptable levels of nitrosamine impurities, the brand-name drug Chantix was permanently discontinued by Pfizer. Fortunately, several effective treatments, including generic versions of the active ingredient, are available as a replacement drug for Chantix.

A 2011 meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found that for every 24 subjects treated with varenicline for over six weeks, one event of constipation could be expected. This confirms that while not the most common adverse event, **varenicline does cause constipation** in some patients, a potential concern for those undergoing smoking cessation. This article explores the link between the medication and bowel function, offers practical management strategies, and distinguishes it from constipation due to nicotine withdrawal.