Side effects of varenicline

Varenicline can have side effects, but there are things you can do to help cope with them.

Try taking an anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen for a few days.

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Try not drink too much alcohol. Painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen can also help. Talk to your doctor if the headaches last several days or are severe.

Drink lots of fluids, such as water or squash, to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark* strong-smelling pee. Do not take any other medicines to treat diarrhoea without speaking to a pharmacist or doctor.

If you take the combined contraceptive pill or progestogen-only pill and you have severe, watery diarrhoea, or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

It may help to avoid rich and spicy food, and not eating just before going to bed. Sleeping with the head of your bed raised, can also help symptoms. If these do not help, try asking a pharmacist about suitable antacids to take.

If you’re having difficulty sleeping, speak to a doctor.

If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down until you feel better. If this continues and you cannot cope, your doctor may reduce your dose.

Do not drive, cycle or use tools or machinery until you feel OK again.

Try to avoid alcohol as it will make you feel worse.

Talk to your doctor if this side effect bothers you or does not go away.

If this advice does not help and any of these side effects bother you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.