Chantix and Weight Gain: An Overview
Weight gain is a frequent side effect of
Chantix™ (
varenicline tartrate). However, the exact percentage of people who gained weight while taking the drug was not reported. In general, the term "frequent" means that it occurred in at least 1 percent of people. However, since weight gain is a common problem in people trying to quit smoking, it is difficult to tell whether it is caused by Chantix or is just due to stopping smoking.
The Link Between Stopping Smoking and Weight Gain
People often gain weight when they stop smoking, due to several reasons. Every time you smoke a cigarette, your metabolism temporarily increases, helping you to burn more calories. When you stop smoking, your metabolism may slow down a bit. Also, food and drinks seem to taste better when you stop smoking, which may lead you to increase your eating and drinking. In addition, many people struggle with an "oral fixation" after stopping smoking, always needing to have something in their mouth. This may lead to overeating.
Typically, most people gain about 10 pounds or less when they stop smoking. A few adjustments, such as getting a little more physical activity or making more healthy food choices, can help with any weight gain that occurs.
Chantix and Weight Gain: Suggestions
Gaining a little weight is common when people stop smoking and may also be a possible side effect of Chantix. However, if you are noticing a large amount of weight gain with Chantix, talk to your healthcare provider. He or she may also look for other causes, such as certain types of medical conditions. Your healthcare provider may give you some suggestions, such as eating
heart-healthy foods, exercising more, and limiting your intake of alcohol. If the weight gain continues, he or she may also recommend other lifestyle changes or possibly switching to another treatment.
(Click BMI Calculator to see if your weight is within a healthy range.)
