Like with all medications, there’s a risk of side effects. Some of the most common side effects include changes in appetite (usually an increase), dizziness, mood changes, high blood pressure, dry mouth, an upset stomach and sickness, sleep problems, headaches, nausea, fatigue, muscle pain, and heartburn. If you’re struggling with side effects, talk to your GP or prescriber.

For more information on side effects, please read the patient information leaflet.

Cytisine is suitable for smokers between the ages of 18 – 65 wanting to quit. You should not take cytisine if you have liver, kidney or heart problems, or a history of stroke. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also not take cytisine.

Women taking the pill to prevent pregnancy should also use a barrier method of contraception when taking cytisine, such as condoms (cytisine makes the pill less effective). Alternatively, talk to your doctor about switching to a highly effective (around 99%) long-acting contraceptive, such as the coil. 

In 2011, a large trial confirmed that cytisine is a safe and effective treatment to help with stopping smoking. Since then, several other trials have confirmed its safety.  

Weight gain is a common side effect of cytisine. However, stopping smoking often causes weight gain (without treatment) as nicotine is an appetite suppressant. 

You should not smoke when taking cytisine. If you smoke, you risk worsening the side effects of nicotine. Symptoms include feeling generally unwell, feeling and being sick, blurred vision, breathing problems, and convulsions. If you experience this, it’s important you get medical advice immediately. 

Cytisine should not be used with anti-tuberculosis drugs. You should also let us know of any other prescription medicines you are taking during your consultation.

100 tablets (one pack) are enough for a complete quit attempt over a 25 day period. If your quit attempt doesn't work this time, you can re-order treatment in two to three months time in your Patient Record.

There are many ways to quit smoking. Nicotine replacement therapy is one way and involves the use of lozenges, patches, gums, sprays and inhalers to substitute nicotine.

Another prescription medicine to help you quit smoking is varenicline - it works in the same way as Champix.

Counselling, hypnotherapy, acupuncture and quitting 'cold turkey' with no support are all other ways of quitting smoking.