Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking varenicline and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

There are different ways to use varenicline. One way is to set a date to quit smoking before beginning treatment with this drug. Begin taking varenicline as directed by your doctor, 1 to 2 weeks before the quit date. Take one 0.5-milligram tablet once a day for 3 days, then increase to one 0.5-milligram tablet twice a day for 4 days. The dose is slowly increased to lessen the chance of side effects (such as nausea, unusual dreams). It is okay to smoke during this time. Stop smoking on the quit date. Take the dose prescribed by your doctor twice a day for the rest of the treatment period (usually 12 weeks).

Another way to use varenicline is to start taking the drug before you choose a date to quit smoking. Start with the 0.5-milligram tablets and increase the dose as directed by your doctor. Pick a date to quit smoking that is between days 8 and 35 of treatment. Stop smoking on the date you have chosen. Take the dose prescribed by your doctor for the rest of the treatment period.

If you are not able to pick a quit date, your doctor may direct you to start taking this medication and gradually reduce smoking with a goal to quit by the end of your treatment. Follow your doctor's directions carefully and reduce smoking as directed.

If this medication comes in a dosing package, carefully follow the directions on the dosing package. There are two types of dosing packs: a starting pack and a continuing pack, each containing different strengths of this medication. If this medication comes in a bottle, carefully follow your doctor's directions on the prescription label. If you have any questions about how to take this medication, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth after eating food and with a full glass of water.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and your risk of side effects will increase. Do not take more than 1 milligram twice a day.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.

Tell your doctor if you continue to smoke after a few weeks of treatment. If you are not able to quit smoking after 12 weeks of treatment, talk to your doctor.

If you are successful and cigarette-free after 12 weeks of treatment, your doctor may recommend another 12 weeks of treatment with varenicline.