"It sort of evens your out. You don't get necessarily the sort of highs of smoking, but you don't get the cravings and the withdrawal," Dr. Cheryl Oncken

"Smoking addiction is a chronic, relapsing disease. Varenicline could potentially reduce cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms and even diminish pleasure from smoking." Dr. Karen Reeves, Executive Director, Clinical Development

The benefits of quitting smoking are endless as it is one of the best things that you can do for yourself. Here are some of the benefits of quitting with Varenicline:

- Varenicline is an effective alternative to nicotine replacement therapy. Since it contains no nicotine you will not be replacing one addiction with another, you can quit once and for all. - In clinical trials the success rate was much higher for those who quit with Varenicline (Chantix) vs. Zyban

- Provides the the person who is quitting with a mild, nicotine like effect which helps to ease withdrawl symptoms, cutting down on the desire to smoke as well as the pleasure that is gained from smoking.

- Varenicline is generally well tolerated and used in conjunction with education and support can offer long term success.

- Some users have stated that if they did slip up and smoke a cigarette while taking Varenicline that the cigarette tasted awful and gave them no pleasure further enforcing the desire to quit.

On the negative side:

- The most commonly reported side effect of Varenicline treatment is nausea. However, most users say that they were not bothered enough by it to stop treatment. The nausea usually dissipates in the first few weeks and users have stated that it passes very quickly when it does occur. Taking Varenicline with a meal or water may help to prevent it.

- Other side effects include a change in dreaming, constipation, gas and/or vomiting.

- Some people found that after they stopped treatment that the urge to smoke returned, they were irritable and had sleeping difficulties. Gradually lowering the dose and allowing your body to adjust may help to reduce these symptoms.