Chantix: Side Effects of the Drug vs. Benefits of Not Smoking

If you are like my husband and I were, you are a smoker. We were smokers who had smoked for a long time. We were sick of what it was doing to our bodies and sick at the ever-rising cost of cigarettes. We decided we would do just about anything to quit. Is Chantix really the 21st century's wonder drug for those hooked on nicotine? Are there really side effects to the new drug Chantix? Is beating the cigarette habit worth the risks of side effects?

My husband has been a smoker for over 25 years, burning up to two packs of cigarettes was a daily average. He tried many quit smoking products. He tried the gum, and years ago he even tried those fake cigarette holders that "reduce nicotine intake". He also tried to simply go it cold turkey. Nothing worked; at least not until he tried Chantix. This report is a result of my interview with him and my own experiences living with him while he was taking the Chantix. Before taking the Chantix, my husband was very active, pushing himself to the limit most days. His libido was above average for a man his age (53). He had no physical or dietary limitations. He enjoyed working outdoors and was a good natured individual.

His Doctor prescribed a Chantix dose-pack. After the first week, his desire for cigarettes had indeed decreased; however, this is when he began having very strange dreams. He was never able to explain or describe the dreams; he just constantly reported that he was having very weird dreams and was not able to sleep. He suddenly was tired all the time, and all he wanted to do was sleep all day. Both his energy level and libido dropped drastically and rapidly. He didn't seem to have a desire to anything. Unaware of the side effects of Chantix at this time, we thought that the tiredness and decrease in drive and energy level were a result of the strange dreams he had been having, which of course, caused a loss of sleep, and inevitable decreased energy level.

We did not notice a decrease in appetite, rather a fairly sharp weight again. He has gained 20 pounds. Constipation was not a big issue, however flatulence was. He reports that he was not depressed. However, I noticed an extreme change in his personality. He became agitated easily, and displayed extended periods in which he was very moody.

He never experienced any vomiting or issues with his stomach.

Chantix did work for him, and he was able to quit smoking. When asked if he would take it again, he said that he would. If trying to find a good method to quit smoking, I think Chantix is worth at least taking a look at. The side effects seem to be temporary, and with careful monitoring allow a successful means to quit smoking cigarettes. Many people have reported side effects ranging from mild to severe. This is in no way an endorsement of Chantix.

I quit several years ago with no assistance.