Generic name: varenicline (nasal) [ var-EN-i-kleen- ]
Brand name: Tyrvaya
Dosage form: nasal spray (0.03 mg/inh)
Drug classes: Cholinergic agonists, Smoking cessation agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on May 28, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is varenicline nasal?

Varenicline nasal (for the nose) is used in adults to treat symptoms of dry eye disease. Varenicline nasal works by increasing tear production in the eye after being sprayed into the nose.

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

Varenicline nasal side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of varenicline may include:

• sneezing;

• cough; or

• nose or throat irritation.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

Tell your doctor if you have or ever had health problems or use other medications.

It is not known if varenicline nasal will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Ask a doctor if it is safe to breastfeed while using varenicline.

How should I use varenicline nasal?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Varenicline nasal is for use in the nose.

Do not shake the bottle.

Varenicline nasal is usually sprayed once in each nostril twice per day (about 12 hours apart).

Read and carefully follow any Instructions for Use provided with your medicine. Be sure you understand how to properly prepare your first dose. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you do not understand these instructions or have any questions.

To use the nasal spray:

• Before your first use, prime it with 7 sprays into the air, away from your face.

• Tilt your head back slightly without lying down and insert the tip of bottle into the nostril. Breathe in and spray the medicine into your nose. Use in your other nostril as directed.

• If the spray gets in your eyes or mouth or on your skin, rinse with water.

• Clean the nasal applicator after each use.

• Prime again whenever the inhaler has not been used in longer than 5 days.

• Do not use the second bottle until you are done with the first bottle. Each bottle has about 15 days of treatment.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Once opened, throw away the medicine after 30 days.

Varenicline dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Smoking Cessation:

Days 1 to 3: 0.5 mg orally once a day
Days 4 to 7: 0.5 mg orally 2 times a day
Days 8 to end of treatment: 1 mg orally 2 times a day
Duration of therapy: 12 weeks

Comments:
-The patient should set a date to stop smoking. Dosing should start 1 to 2 weeks before this date OR the patient may begin treatment and quit smoking between Days 8 and 35.
-Smoking cessation therapies are more likely to succeed for patients who are motivated to stop smoking and who are provided with additional advice and support.
-In smoking cessation therapy, risk for relapse to smoking is elevated in the period immediately following the end of treatment.

Use: As an aid to smoking cessation treatment

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and use your next dose at the regular time. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while using varenicline nasal?

Avoid priming varenicline nasal more than needed. Priming will reduce the amount of medicine left in the bottle.

What other drugs will affect varenicline nasal?

Other drugs may affect varenicline nasal, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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