Effects of varenicline: A Synthesis of Findings from 12 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Varenicline, a medication used to help people quit smoking, has been shown to have various effects on attention, inhibitory control, cravings, and smoking behavior. 6 found that varenicline improved lapses in attention compared to placebo in smokers seeking treatment. 11 investigated varenicline's effects on smoking reduction in smokers not yet ready to quit, finding that while it didn't significantly reduce cigarette consumption, it was associated with increased self-efficacy for quitting later. 4 demonstrated that varenicline reduced tonic cravings, cue-provoked cravings, the perceived value of cigarettes, and self-reported satisfaction from smoking compared to placebo. 7 explored the short-term effects of varenicline on cortisol levels in healthy non-smokers, finding potential effects on cortisol levels. 2 assessed the abuse potential of varenicline in smokers and non-smokers, finding that it was unlikely to be abused. 9 investigated the effect of different varenicline doses on alcohol self-administration in individuals with alcohol use disorders, indicating a potential dose-dependent effect on alcohol consumption. 1 established the efficacy and safety of varenicline as a smoking cessation aid. 10 compared the effectiveness of different doses of varenicline, finding no significant difference in smoking cessation rates. 3 investigated the effect of varenicline on the subjective and physiological effects of intravenous nicotine in abstinent smokers. 5 performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the frequency of gastrointestinal adverse effects of varenicline. 8 conducted a meta-analysis to examine the frequency and impact of adverse effects on varenicline discontinuation. 12 compared the effects of varenicline combined with a nicotine patch or placebo patch, finding no significant difference in smoking cessation rates compared to varenicline monotherapy or extended treatment duration.

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Varenicline has shown potential benefits in reducing cravings, improving attention, and aiding in smoking cessation. 6 、 4 It is considered a safe and effective medication for smoking cessation. 1 Varenicline may also have potential benefits for individuals with alcohol use disorders. 9

Risk Summary

Potential risks of varenicline include gastrointestinal side effects. 5 Some individuals may discontinue varenicline due to side effects. 8 While not fully understood, varenicline may also have some impact on cortisol levels in healthy non-smokers. 7

Comparison Across Studies

Commonalities

Multiple studies consistently demonstrate varenicline's effectiveness in reducing cravings and aiding in smoking cessation. 4 、 1 Many studies also highlight the safety and efficacy of varenicline as a smoking cessation aid. 1 、 10

Differences

Studies show inconsistent findings regarding varenicline's effectiveness in reducing cigarette consumption in smokers not yet ready to quit. 11 The effect of varenicline on alcohol consumption in individuals with alcohol use disorders appears to be dose-dependent. 9 The impact of varenicline on cortisol levels in healthy non-smokers is not consistently observed across all studies. 7

Consistency and Contradictions in Findings

Varenicline's effectiveness as a smoking cessation aid is supported by several studies. 6 、 4 、 1 、 10 However, there are inconsistencies in the findings regarding varenicline's ability to reduce cigarette consumption in smokers not yet ready to quit and its impact on alcohol consumption in individuals with alcohol use disorders. 11 、 9 Additionally, the effects of varenicline on cortisol levels in healthy non-smokers are not consistently reported. 7

Implications for Real-World Application

Varenicline is widely recommended by healthcare professionals as a smoking cessation aid. 1 However, it is important to be aware of potential gastrointestinal side effects and the possibility of discontinuation due to these effects. 5 、 8 Further research is needed to investigate the effects of varenicline on different populations, including those not ready to quit smoking, individuals with alcohol use disorders, and healthy non-smokers. 11 、 9 、 7

Limitations of Current Research

Many studies on varenicline have relatively small sample sizes, limiting the generalizability of their findings. Additionally, many studies focus on specific populations (e.g. smokers, individuals with alcohol use disorders), requiring further research to understand varenicline's effects on other populations.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on investigating the effects of varenicline on smokers not yet ready to quit, individuals with alcohol use disorders, and healthy non-smokers. 11 、 9 、 7 Long-term safety and efficacy studies are also needed. Furthermore, future research should investigate new combination therapies that enhance varenicline's effectiveness and strategies to mitigate its side effects.

Conclusion

Varenicline is a potentially effective medication for smoking cessation, as demonstrated by various studies. 6 、 4 、 1 、 10 However, further research is necessary to optimize its effectiveness, and healthcare professionals should carefully consider the results of these studies to determine the most appropriate treatment options. Individuals seeking to quit smoking should consult with their doctor or pharmacist to find the most suitable approach for them.

Literature analysis of 12 papers
Positive Content
10
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
2
Article Type
10
2
0
1
12
1.

Smoking cessation efficacy and safety of varenicline, an alpha4beta2 nicotinic receptor partial agonist.

Author: TonstadSerena

Nicotine craving relief
Smoking cessation
Nicotine withdrawal

Varenicline, an alpha4beta2 nicotinic receptor partial agonist, has shown promising results in Phase 3 studies for inducing smoking cessation and maintaining smoking abstinence. It has the potential to relieve nicotine craving and withdrawal symptoms while reducing the reinforcing effects of nicotine.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Human abuse liability of the smoking cessation drug varenicline in smokers and nonsmokers.

Author: McCollS L, BursteinA H, ReevesK R, BillingC B, StolarM, SellersE M

Smoking cessation
Abuse potential

Varenicline, a medication to help people stop smoking, is unlikely to be abused. This was demonstrated in a study where smokers and nonsmokers were given varenicline or a placebo. Varenicline did not produce the same pleasurable effects as amphetamine, a known drug of abuse. Additionally, varenicline was associated with some unpleasant effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

3.

Varenicline attenuates some of the subjective and physiological effects of intravenous nicotine in humans.

Author: SofuogluMehmet, HermanAryeh I, MooneyMarc, WatersAndrew J

Smoking cessation

This study characterized the effects of varenicline, a partial nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) agonist used for smoking cessation, on nicotine's dose-dependent effects in abstinent smokers.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.Research funding provided by US government agencies other than the Public Health Service.

Language : English

4.

Varenicline effects on craving, cue reactivity, and smoking reward.

Author: BrandonThomas H, DrobesDavid J, UnrodMarina, HeckmanBryan W, OliverJason A, RoetzheimRichard C, KarverSloan Beth, SmallBrent J

Reduced reward from smoking
Reduced tobacco cravings
None mentioned

Varenicline reduced tonic craving, cue-provoked craving, the expected value of cigarettes, number of puffs and time spent smoking, and self-reported reward from smoking compared to placebo.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Gastrointestinal adverse effects of varenicline at maintenance dose: a meta-analysis.

Author: LeungLawrence K, PatafioFrancis M, RosserWalter W

gastrointestinal adverse effects

Varenicline is a medication that helps people quit smoking. It can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

6.

The effects of varenicline on attention and inhibitory control among treatment-seeking smokers.

Author: RhodesJessica D, HawkLarry W, AshareRebecca L, SchlienzNicolas J, MahoneyMartin C

Smoking cessation

Varenicline improved lapses in attention among treatment-seeking smokers preparing to make a quit attempt, suggesting that attention may play a role in its mechanism of action for smoking cessation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

7.

Effects of short-term varenicline administration on cortisol in healthy, non-smoking adults: a randomized, double-blind, study.

Author: MockingRoel J T, WeverStephany A, PflanzC Patrick, PringleAbbie, ParsonsElizabeth, McTavishSarah F, CowenPhil J, HarmerCatherine J, ScheneAart H

Effective smoking cessation
Depressogenic side effects

Varenicline is a highly effective drug for smoking cessation, but it has been linked to depression in some users. It remains unclear whether this is due to varenicline itself, or to smoking and/or smoking cessation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

8.

Adverse Effects Cause Varenicline Discontinuation: A Meta-Analysis.

Author: DrovandiAaron D, ChenCarla C, GlassBeverley D

Smoking cessation
Discontinuation

Varenicline is a smoking cessation drug that is effective in providing prolonged smoking abstinence. However, its adverse effect profile may cause discontinuation, potentially reducing smoking abstinence rates.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.

Language : English

9.

Effect of Lowering the Dose of Varenicline on Alcohol Self-administration in Drinkers With Alcohol Use Disorders.

Author: VerplaetseTerril L, PittmanBrian P, ShiJulia M, TetraultJeanette M, CoppolaSabrina, McKeeSherry A

Alcohol consumption reduction
Insomnia

This double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined the effect of varenicline (1 and 2 mg/day) on alcohol consumption in adults with alcohol use disorders. The 2 mg/day dose reduced alcohol craving but did not significantly reduce alcohol consumption. The 1 mg/day dose had no significant effect on craving or consumption.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

10.

Effect of 0.5 mg versus 1 mg varenicline for smoking cessation: a randomized controlled trial.

Author: Fouz-RosónNatalia, Montemayor-RubioTeodoro, Almadana-PachecoVirginia, Montserrat-GarcíaSoledad, Gómez-BasteroAna Paulina, Romero-MuñozConcepción, Polo-PadilloJuan

Side effects

This open-label randomized trial compared the effectiveness of 1 mg and 0.5 mg varenicline in smoking cessation. The study found that both doses were equally effective in achieving abstinence at 1 year, with similar rates of adherence and side effects. This suggests that a lower dose of varenicline may be just as effective as a higher dose for smoking cessation.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

11.

Varenicline for smoking reduction in smokers not yet ready to quit: A double-blind, proof-of-concept randomized clinical trial.

Author: SteinbergMarc L, LuShou-En, WilliamsJill M

Quitting self-efficacy
Smoking reduction

Varenicline is a promising treatment option for smokers who are willing to reduce but not quit smoking. While varenicline did not lead to a significant reduction in cigarettes per day compared to placebo, it did increase the number of smokers who made a quit attempt. Successful reduction in cigarettes per day was associated with increased self-efficacy for quitting.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

12.

Effects of Combined Varenicline With Nicotine Patch and of Extended Treatment Duration on Smoking Cessation: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Author: BakerTimothy B, PiperMegan E, SmithStevens S, BoltDaniel M, SteinJames H, FioreMichael C

Insomnia
Nausea

This randomized clinical trial found no significant difference in smoking cessation rates at 52 weeks between varenicline monotherapy and combined varenicline plus nicotine patch therapy, or between 12-week and 24-week treatment durations.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

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