About this information
This NHS content is written for people in England. Medicine names, availability, prescribing and services may differ in other countries.
Varenicline (previously called Champix) is a medicine that can help you stop smoking.
The addictive part of cigarette tobacco is called nicotine. Varenicline can reduce the cravings for nicotine and helps with the withdrawal you get when you stop smoking. These symptoms can include an urge to smoke again, feeling depressed or irritable, and difficulty sleeping.
Varenicline is only available on prescription and comes as tablets.
View the original NHS website page ↗. Refreshed 19 August 2026.
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