Drug Interactions between Champix and methoxsalen

GENERALLY AVOID: The ingestion of foods containing photosensitizing components (e.g., limes, figs, parsley, parsnips, rue (Ruta graveolens), mustard, carrots and celery) may increase the risk of photosensitivity and severe burning during methoxsalen therapy. Two cases of photosensitivity involving rue and a soup containing celery, parsley, and parsnip have been reported in PUVA patients.

MANAGEMENT: Patients who are undergoing PUVA treatment and taking methoxsalen should be advised to avoid eating large quantities of these foods.

GENERALLY AVOID: Varenicline may enhance the effects of alcohol as well as alter the way an individual reacts to alcohol. During postmarketing use, some patients have reported experiencing increased intoxicating effects of alcohol while taking varenicline. In addition, some reported cases of neuropsychiatric events, including unusual and sometimes aggressive behavior directed toward oneself or others, may have been worsened by concomitant use of alcohol. These events were often accompanied by amnesia.

MANAGEMENT: Patients should be advised to limit their consumption of alcohol until they know whether varenicline affects their tolerance for alcohol, and to exercise caution driving or operating machinery until they know how quitting smoking and/or varenicline may affect them. Patients should immediately stop taking varenicline and contact their physician if they develop agitation, hostility, aggressive behavior, depressed mood, or changes in behavior or thinking that are not typical for them, or if they develop suicidal ideation or behavior.