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. Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS)
  9. Typical Antipsychotics
  10. Naltrexone
  11. Nicotine Replacement Therapies
  12. SSRIs
  13. Varenicline
  14. Naloxone
  15. 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)