Varenicline tartrate and Ziac

• Generic Name: varenicline
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Chantix, Chantix Starter Pack, Chantix Continuing Month

Adjunct in the cessation of cigarette smoking.

USPHS guideline for the treatment of tobacco use and dependence recommends varenicline as one of several first-line drugs that may reliably increase long-term smoking abstinence rates.

In clinical studies, varenicline therapy increased continuous abstinence rates compared with placebo or active comparator (e.g., bupropion). Also reduced urge to smoke.

In studies in patients with stable, documented cardiovascular disease and patients with mild to moderate COPD, efficacy of varenicline was comparable to that in the general smoking population without these conditions.

Also evaluated in patients with stable major depressive disorder in a postmarketing study; benefits also observed in this population without evidence of increased neuropsychiatric effects. (See Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Suicidality under Cautions.)

Efficacy and safety of varenicline given in conjunction with other smoking cessation therapies (e.g., bupropion, nicotine replacement therapy) not established.

• Generic Name: bisoprolol / hydrochlorothiazide
• Dosage Forms: tablet, film coated
• Other Brand Names: Ziac

Ziac contains a combination of hydrochlorothiazide and bisoprolol. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention.

Bisoprolol is a beta-blocker. Beta-blockers affect the heart and circulation (blood flow through arteries and veins).

Ziac is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

Ziac may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.