Varenicline and alcohol side effects
While some prescribers may not actively advise against drinking alcohol whilst taking Varenicline, there is still a chance that the two substances can negatively interact.
Some people who have mixed alcohol and Varenicline have reported that their tolerance for alcohol is much lower, and they get more drunk, more easily. Additionally, they report that their potential for alcohol-induced blackouts increases, and they can become aggressive or rowdy more easily. At the very least, it’s wise to limit alcohol intake while using Varenicline.
That said, some studies have suggested that varenicline can help people with alcohol dependency to drink less, by reducing your cravings the same way it does with nicotine. However there’s not a great deal of evidence to back this up.
Can Varenicline cause weight gain?
One of the potential side effects of Varenicline that causes people some concern is weight gain. However, it’s worth noting that quitting smoking can cause weight gain on its own. This is because smoking suppresses appetite and speeds up metabolism.
Additionally, while weight gain is listed as a potential side effect of Varenicline, very few people do actually put on weight whilst taking the treatment. In fact, some studies regarding Varenicline weight gain have shown that users do not gain more weight on Varenicline than without.
Does Varenicline cause constipation?
In some cases, Varenicline can cause adverse gastrointestinal effects, such as constipation, but this is quite an uncommon side effect. Quitting smoking can also cause constipation, it’s not always easy to work out the underlying cause. One study showed that one in 24 subjects treated with varenicline (the main ingredient found in Varenicline) experienced constipation.
Can Varenicline cause loss of libido?
A concern amongst many individuals thinking about taking Varenicline is the prospect of a loss of libido.
However, a decreased libido is a rare side effect experienced by roughly one in 1000 users of Varenicline. Additionally, in those rare cases that Varenicline does affect sex drive, it can also lead to an increased libido.
Can Varenicline cause sleep problems?
It has been reported that Varenicline can cause issues with sleep. However, it’s important to remember that restlessness and difficulty sleeping can also be generic symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.
Some studies have found that abnormal dreams and sleeping patterns are common side effects of taking varenicline, but these symptoms often subside after the first few weeks after beginning treatment. Taking your evening dosage immediately after your evening meal and not straight before bedtime can help reduce the sleep-related side effects of Varenicline.
That said, it’s essential to talk to one of our doctors or consult your family practitioner if you feel these symptoms becoming more extreme or if you begin to experience sleep aggression or sleepwalking.
