Tobacco warning
WARNING - The following depression discussion is intended for those ending nicotine use cold turkey, not for those taking cessation medications. Some patients using Chantix and Champix (varenicline) have experienced changes in behavior, agitation, depressed mood, and suicidal thoughts or actions. Some experienced these symptoms when they began taking varenicline, and others developed them after several weeks of treatment or after they stopped taking it. If either you, your family or caregiver notice agitation, depressed mood, or changes in behavior that are not typical for you, or if you develop suicidal thoughts or actions, stop taking CHANTIX and call your doctor immediately. If using varenicline or any other quitting medication do not rely upon this book regarding any symptoms but instead present any and all concerns to your treating physician or pharmacists.
The above warning was necessary because depression is not some fixed and interchangeable emotion, as though some license plate that would fit every car. Like the word “wind” it can range from a soft gentle breeze to a full-blown hurricane. The word depression can range from a short period of normal and expected sadness to full-blown clinical depression with suicidal thoughts, planning or attempts.
