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Myths and Misconceptions Surrounding Chantix Use Among Health Care Professionals
Author(s) -
Amirhamzeh Jennifer,
Bobango Janet,
Talley Todd T
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.30.1_supplement.1187.3
Subject(s) - varenicline , partial agonist , agonist , pharmacology , medicine , nicotinic agonist , health professionals , family medicine , smoking cessation , health care , psychiatry , receptor , nicotine , political science , pathology , law
In 2006, the FDA approved varenicline (Chantix), as a new pharmacological intervention for individuals needing help with smoking cessation. Varenicline is a partial agonist of α4β2 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), a full agonist with moderate affinity for α7 nAChRs, and a partial agonist for α3β4 and α6β2 nAChRs as well as the closely related serotonin type 3 receptors (5‐HT 3 ). In addition, varenicline has significant affinity for the acetylcholine binding proteins (AChBPs) allowing the generation of high resolution X‐ray crystal structures of the compound in complex with the AChBPs by our group and others. However, varenicline use has been associated, correctly or not, with series of concerns about its safety and adverse drug reactions including depression and suicide. These concerns have resulted in a decrease in the prescription of Chantix by physicians. The purpose of this study is to assess pharmacists, physicians and student pharmacists conceptions about indications and side effects of Chantix by asking individuals a series of questions in a short survey. This information will be used for educating health care professionals about Chantix use in their practices. Support or Funding Information ISU Seed Grant; Aslam Foundation; COP SU Funds