Medicine & USMLE

Varenicline

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Psych Drugs (New)
  1. Mirtazapine
  2. Vortioxetine
  3. Bupropion
  4. Trazodone
  5. Vilazodone
  6. Buspirone
  7. Buprenorphine
  8. Serotonin Syndrome
  9. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)
  10. Typical Antipsychotics
  11. Atypical Antipsychotics
  12. Nicotine Replacement Therapies
  13. SSRIs
  14. Varenicline
  15. Alcohol Use Disorder Treatments
  16. Naloxone
  17. Naltrexone
  18. CNS Stimulants

Summary

Varenicline is a medication that works as a partial agonist at nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Clinically, varenicline is used for smoking cessation. It works by diminishing the rewarding effects of nicotine and treating nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Potential side effects of varenicline include GI distress and sleep disturbances, such as insomnia.

Key Points

  • Varenicline
    • Mechanism
      • Partial Agonist of Nicotinic ACh Receptor
    • Clinical Use
      • Smoking Cessation
        • Diminishes effects on reward system (reduces cravings)
        • Reduces withdrawal
    • Side Effects
      • GI upset
      • Sleep disturbance (insomnia)