Results of three studies published last Tuesday show one thing: Chantix (varenicline) drug can reduce craving for smoking and can reduce withdrawal symptoms. Hence, after taking this drug, one can finally say goodbye to what used to be a hard habit to break, smoking.

Based on the studies, Chantix is twice as effective as Zyban, an antidepressant drug prescribed to nicotine-dependent persons. Furthermore, one’s chances of smoking again after 6 months of hiatus are greatly trimmed down, so anyone who uses this drug can expect to quit smoking for good.

Here are some interesting facts from one of the studies on Chantix drug:

• 44% of those on Chantix were not smoking at 12 weeks
• 29.5%% of those on Zyban were not smoking at 12 weeks
• 18% of those on a placebo were not smoking at 12 weeks
• 22% of those on Chantix did not smoke from week 9 to 52
• 16% of those on Zyban did not smoke from week 9 to 52
• 8.4% of those on a placebo did not smoke from week 9 to 52

Chantix is made by Pfizer and the three studies were likewise commissioned by the drug company, which made some doctors doubt the drug’s efficiency as everything may just be a form of hype.

Whether it’s hype or not, though, I think smokers shouldn’t mainly rely on this drug if they really want to quit. Quitting smoking begins and ends with his will.

By guest writer Khristine

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