darkeyes, I have been watching Chantix with interest, as my work overlaps with nicotine research. Chantix has a completely different mechanism of action from antidepressants such as Wellbutrin, which is a dopamine reuptake inhibitor, and the Paxil/Prozac/etc class (SSRIs), which are serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Of the ADs, only Wellbutrin is used as a smoking cessation aid. Chantix acts by binding to nicotine receptors in your brain. Normally when you smoke, nicotine binds to these receptors, which results in stimulation of the dopamine pathway, which gives pleasure! Chantix binds to these same receptors and blocks nicotine from binding. Chantix also causes those dopamine pleasure feelings, but to a less strong extent than what nicotine produces. But you get enough to help with withdrawal symptoms when you stop smoking (or chewing the gum).

I don't have any information on Chantix and weight gain/loss.

</font><blockquote><div id="quote"><font class="small">Quote:</font>
My GP's PA mentioned Chantix, claiming many people are now getting hooked on the nico gum, wow, from one habit to another.

</div></font></blockquote><font class="post">Yes, but remember it is far better to be hooked on nico gum, which doesn't cause cancer, than on smoking, which does. The thought is that after being on Chantix for a few months and having the effects of nicotine blocked if you do happen to smoke or chew gum (Chantix binds the nicotine receptors and prevents nicotine from binding and activating the dopamine pathway), you will break this link between smoking and reward. With no positive reinforcement for smoking/nicotine (pleasure), you will stop doing it. This new drug has been quite successful. What remains to be seen is once people stop taking Chantix, do they revert back to smoking? If they can kick the smoking habit, then go off Chantix, and avoid smoking even a single cigarette at all costs, I think this could really, really help.

I think it is really worth trying for people who have had no luck with other cessation methods.

Chantix web site:
http://www.chantix.com