Last reviewed · How we verify
Varenicline Tartarate
Varenicline works by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain, reducing the rewarding effects of smoking and alleviating withdrawal symptoms.
Varenicline works by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain, reducing the rewarding effects of smoking and alleviating withdrawal symptoms. Used for Treatment to help adults quit smoking.
At a glance
| Generic name | Varenicline Tartarate |
|---|---|
| Also known as | Chantix, Champix |
| Sponsor | Pfizer |
| Drug class | Nicotinic receptor partial agonist |
| Target | Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (alpha4beta2 subtype) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Addiction |
| Phase | Phase 3 |
Mechanism of action
This is achieved by activating the alpha4beta2 subtype of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, which are involved in the brain's reward and stress response pathways. By blocking the action of nicotine at these receptors, varenicline reduces the urge to smoke and alleviates withdrawal symptoms.
Approved indications
- Treatment to help adults quit smoking
Common side effects
- Nausea
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Dyspepsia
- Fatigue
Key clinical trials
- Smoking Cessation in Subjects With Mild-to-moderate Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). (PHASE3)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- Varenicline Tartarate CI brief — competitive landscape report
- Varenicline Tartarate updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- Pfizer portfolio CI