Everything you
want to know.

Yes. Varenicline is the active ingredient in Chantix. Pfizer's brand-name version was recalled in 2021 due to nitrosamine contamination, an issue unrelated to the medication's safety or effectiveness. The FDA-approved generic is now back on the market, available at a fraction of the original price. Respiro makes it accessible online through a simple intake and physician review, without waiting rooms or office visits.

Yes — Respiro asks about all nicotine products so the physician has the full picture. Varenicline is FDA-approved for smoking cessation; whether it is appropriate for vaping, pouches, dip, chew, or multiple-product use is a clinical decision made by your physician.

Common side effects can include nausea, vivid dreams, sleep changes, headache, constipation, gas, or other stomach symptoms. Serious side effects are rare, but your physician reviews your health history before prescribing. See the prescribing information for the full list of risks.

The FDA removed Chantix's boxed warning in 2016 after reviewing large safety data, including the EAGLES trial. The current label still includes warnings and precautions, which is why a licensed physician reviews your medical history before prescribing.

Varenicline may not be appropriate for everyone. Patients with certain seizure histories, severe kidney conditions, or other medical factors may not be candidates. Your reviewing physician will evaluate your full medical history and determine whether treatment is appropriate for you.

No. You start varenicline one week before your chosen quit date, and you set that date yourself. Your physician will help you plan the timeline. Many patients find the quit date becomes obvious once cravings naturally fade in the first two weeks.

We back the consultation with a satisfaction guarantee. Some patients have medical histories that make varenicline a poor fit — certain seizure histories or severe kidney conditions, for example. If our physician recommends against it and you'd prefer not to explore alternatives, your $75 consultation fee is refunded in full.

An independent licensed physician reviews your intake and makes all clinical decisions based on their professional medical judgment. Respiro coordinates access to care, we do not employ physicians or make prescribing decisions.

No. A prescription is only issued if the reviewing physician determines it is clinically appropriate for your specific situation. Not everyone who applies will be approved. If our physician recommends against varenicline and you'd prefer not to explore alternatives, the $75 consultation fee is refunded in full — our satisfaction guarantee.

Yes. Respiro is available to adults 18 and older. Varenicline is not approved for use in individuals under 18.

No. Respiro is not for medical emergencies. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. For mental health crises, call or text 988.

No. Respiro is a cash-pay service. No insurance is required or accepted. The consultation fee is $75. If prescribed, your medication ships directly to your door, no pharmacy run required.

Yes. Varenicline is an FDA-approved prescription medication and qualifies as an eligible medical expense under IRS Publication 502. You can pay with HSA/FSA dollars or submit your Respiro receipt for reimbursement from your plan administrator. Patients typically save 20-37% in pre-tax dollars depending on their tax bracket. See how much you'd save →

The standard protocol is 12 weeks, the same duration used in the clinical trials showing a 44% quit rate. Your physician may recommend an additional 12-week maintenance phase if it's clinically appropriate for you. Most patients find 12 weeks sufficient.

Yes, anytime before your next billing date. No cancellation fees, no friction, no runaround. You can pause, cancel, or restart whenever it works for you.