Are you looking for a solid treatment to quit smoking without going round in circles between patches and failed resolutions? Good news: Champix (varenicline) is once again available in France. After several years’ absence due to a quality problem, the drug is back with a revised manufacturing process that complies with current standards. In concrete terms: an effective tool, prescribed by a professional, to transform the desire to quit into lasting success.
Why is Champix back now?
In 2021, distribution of varenicline was suspended and batches recalled, due to an impurity (N-nitroso-varenicline) above acceptable thresholds. Pfizer has since modified the excipients and the manufacturing process, and has confirmed that the product will be available again in mid-2025. As a result, Champix is once again available on prescription in French pharmacies.
How does varenicline work?
Varenicline is a partial agonist of nicotinic receptors: it reduces withdrawal symptoms while attenuating the “pleasure” provoked by cigarettes. In practice, the patient sets a quit date, and treatment begins 1 to 2 weeks before that date. The standard course of treatment lasts 12 weeks; a 12-week extension can be discussed to consolidate abstinence.
What science says about efficiency
The methodical syntheses of reference converge: varenicline significantly increases the chances of abstinence at 6 months or more, and outperforms bupropion or a single nicotine substitute used in isolation. It would be on a par with other first-line approaches such as cytisine or nicotine-enhanced vape, according to the most recent comparisons. In other words: Champix belongs to the top 3 evidence-based strategies for smoking cessation.
Who is it for?
In France, the HAS considers the medical service rendered to be important for highly dependent smokers (Fagerström score ≥ 7) – and more generally for adults motivated tostop smoking. If you’re a heavy smoker, if each attempt fails after a few days because of withdrawal, you’re in the clinical target group for treatment. Talk to your doctor or a tobaccologist.
Undesirable effects, safety, precautions
As with any medication, Champix may cause side effects: nausea, abnormal dreams, insomnia, sometimes headaches. Caution should be exercised in cases of psychiatric history,renal insufficiency (possible adaptation), pregnancy orbreast-feeding; the assessment is made on a case-by-case basis with the prescriber. Medical follow-up andbehavioral support are key to success. Never initiate, modify or discontinue a treatment without medical advice.
Practical dosage (reminder)
The classic regimen gradually increases the dose (film-coated tablets) during the first week, then moves on to the maintenance level. The aim is to reduce cravings, stabilize sleep and mood, and ensure long-term results. Your healthcare professional will adjust the prescription according to your profile and tolerance.
How about maximizing your chances?
The literature is clear: combining behavioral support with treatment improves results. In practical terms, this means setting a quit date, identifying triggers, adapting the environment (alcohol, evenings out, coffee breaks), providing substitutes for gestures and an anti-craving routine. Varenicline acts on neurobiological dependence; support helps you to change rewards and habits.
A complementary, non-medicated option: auricular reflexology (laser)
Some smokers want extra support in managing stress and cravings. Ear reflexology(stimulation of points in the ear, sometimes using a soft laser) is a non-medicinal approach used as a motivational and symptom-management aid. It does not replace varenicline or medical advice, but can help relieve tension, improve sleep and help you get through the first few weeks more serenely. Talk to your caregiver about integrating it without interfering with your treatment. (This section is intended for general information only and does not constitute a medical recommendation).
In a nutshell (to share with a loved one)
- Champix (varenicline) is making a comeback in France and is based on a targeted mechanism against nicotine.
- Its efficacy has been confirmed by recent Cochrane reviews and analyses.
- Safety requires medical supervision and appropriate prescriptions.
- Combine medical treatment with behavioral support, and consider ear reflexology as a complement if you wish.
Take action with MyLaserTabac: your ally for lasting tobacco cessation
If you want to quit smoking and put all the chances on your side, MyLaserTabac is here to help. We specialize inhelping you quit smoking, using a natural and innovative method: anti-smoking laser auricular reflexology.
How does it work?
Our method is based on the gentle stimulation of reflex points on the ear using a low-intensity laser. These points are directly linked to the nervous system and influence the areas of the brain associated withnicotine craving and stress management.
In concrete terms, the session contributes to :
- Reduce withdrawal symptoms (nervousness, irritability, compulsions),
- Soothe the anxiety often felt during withdrawal,
- Limit the weight gain associated with quitting smoking,
- Promote overall well-being in the first few hours after the session.
This approach, which is totally painless and non-invasive, is used as a complement to personal motivation and advice from healthcare professionals.
Why choose MyLaserTabac?
- Expertise: practitioners trained and experienced in withdrawal management.
- Fast results: a single session is often enough to get things moving.
- Natural method: no drugs or chemicals.
- Personalized support: each consultant receives support tailored to his or her profile and habits.
A national network close to you
MyLaserTabac has numerous centers throughout France to welcome you. Wherever you are, there’s a center ready to help you take the next step.
Simply book an appointment today to start your journey tostop smoking with a anti-smoking laser and start your new, cigarette-free life.
