Chantix Drug Interactions
Although Chantix is not usually taken long-term, even using it for a short time can cause users to experience certain interactions with other drugs and medications. As such, it is important to speak to a doctor about any current medications before using this stop-smoking aid.
Anticoagulants
This class of drugs is used to help thin blood clots or prevent them from forming. Some of the drugs in this category include Warfarin, Ticlopidine, Tirofiban, Copidogrel, and Eftifibitide.
In addition, aspirin also works as a blood thinner and may also cause interactions when used with Chantix. Those who are on an aspirin regimen may need to suspend this practice temporarily while they are using Chantix. In addition, other non-aspirin pain relievers should be used for headaches during this time.
Stop Smoking Aids
Chantix should not be used with other stop-smoking aids such as nicotine patches or gum. This is because these products may confuse the nicotine-blocking receptors in the brain that are suppressed by Chantix.
One of the benefits of Chantix is that it reduces nicotine cravings, which means these aids should not be necessary. When taking this medication, smokers are required to set a quit date so they can gradually reduce the amount of nicotine in their body. Treatment is most effective when they refrain from taking in any nicotine after that day, which includes getting it from artificial sources.
Insulin
Diabetics who take insulin should use caution when using this prescription. This is because this medication can cause interactions that result in unstable blood sugar levels. Some patients report unusually high blood sugar levels throughout the day, while others claim it is either too low. A few patients may even have blood sugar levels that fluctuate from high to low at various times of the day. The reason for this is not known, but it could have something to do with how many people’s eating habits change when they quit smoking.
Asthma Medications and Inhalers
People who suffer from acute asthma or other breathing disorders may experience a Chantix drug interaction. This is somewhat ironic, because if an allergic reaction to this medication occurs, one of the signs of this is difficulty breathing. A combination of oral medications and broncho-inhalers are sometimes used to treat breathing disorders.
Singulair is an oral asthma medication that can cause users to experience ill side effects. Theophylline is a type of asthma inhaler than should not be used in conjunction with Chantix. Over-the-counter nicotine inhalers should also be avoided during a Chantix treatment regimen.
Herbs and Supplements
The effect of herbs and supplements on Chantix users is generally not known. As a result, it can be a good idea to talk to a physician before using this medication with other herbal remedies. This is especially true if the herbs are being used in patients with disorders that make them a higher risk for experiencing side effects. Hallucinogenic herbs such as wormwood or red mulberry should be avoided as Chantix already has the potential to make users hallucinate or have vivid dreams.
Patients should never assume a medication is safe to use with Chantix. This decision is best left up to a medical professional after reviewing the benefits and risks of this medication along with an individual’s health history.
