*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Champix Varenicline

NHS medicines information on Champix (varenicline) - what it's used for, side effects, dosage and who can take it.

Champix (also called varenicline) is not currently available in the UK or Europe. It has been withdrawn as a precaution, because of an impurity found in the medicine.

It may be unavailable long-term. It's not yet known whether it will be available again in future.

Champix is a medicine that can help you stop smoking. It was only available on prescription. It reduces the cravings for nicotine and helps with the withdrawal symptoms you get when you stop smoking. These can include an urge to smoke again, feeling depressed or irritable, and difficulty sleeping.

If you want to stop smoking, speak to your doctor or NHS stop smoking service. They will be able to advise on other stop smoking treatments, such as nicotine replacement therapy or bupropion (Zyban).

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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