Chantix Dosage
Chantix is a medication often prescribed to help people stop smoking. It has a successful track record of reducing nicotine cravings when the proper dosage is given. While the prescribed amount is relatively standard, there are a few things that could require a Chantix dosage to be adjusted.
Beginning Dosage
Chantix generally comes in two different dosage forms-0.5 mg and 1.0 mg. The 0.5 mg pill is usually given in the beginning phases of treatment. During the first three days of treatment, the 0.5 mg tablet is typically taken once a day, preferably in the morning. From day four through seven, two 0.5 mg tablets are taken each day. Ideally, this will be one tablet in the morning and another one in the evening just after dinner.
Increasing to a Higher Dosage
After the first week of treatment, patients are ready to begin taking a higher Chantix dosage. Beginning at day eight, two 1.0 mg tablets are to be taken each day. One should be taken in the morning and the other in the evening just as with the two 0.5 mg tablets. The length of a treatment plan will vary, but the amount of Chantix taken does not normally increase after the patient has reached the maximum dosage levels.
Length of Treatment
Most smokers quit anywhere between the 8th and 35th day of treatment. Even so, patients are normally advised to continue taking two 1.0 mg tablets each day for up to 12 weeks in order to prevent a relapse.
Those who have smoked for a long period of time or have a heavy smoking habit may need to continue an additional 12 weeks past the initial treatment time for a total of 24 weeks of medication. Patients who do so typically continue taking two 1.0 mg tablets each day during these 12 bonus weeks as well.
Considerations
While the progression from 0.5 mg to 1.0 mg is a fairly standard process, there are certain instances that could require the lower dosage to be used exclusively in some patients. This includes people who have kidney disease, especially if they are also undergoing dialysis.
Diabetics may also have difficulty taking a higher Chantix dosage and may also need to stick with the 0.5 mg tablet. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or considering pregnancy should discuss this with their doctor before beginning a Chantix regimen.
Other Medications
Certain medications may cause a negative interaction with Chantix. Some of these include asthma medications and inhalers along with certain types of blood thinners. Cimetidine, which is a medication that treats disorders of the esophagus and intestines, may also cause adverse reactions to Chantix. A patient should always discuss any medications he or she is taking with a doctor before beginning treatment so a lower Chantix dosage can be prescribed if necessary.
Overdosing on Chantix is extremely rare; however, those who suspect they may have done so should seek medical attention promptly. When taken every day at regular intervals, this medication can ease the nicotine cravings associated with quitting smoking so that users can live a more productive and healthy lifestyle.
