Unlicensed varenicline

Following the initial disruption to supply of varenicline (Champix) in June 2021 because of the presence of nitrosamines above the acceptable level of daily intake, Pfizer announced a wholesale and pharmacy recall of Champix in October 2021.

A nitrosamine-compliant, unlicensed varenicline supply is now available in the UK and the documents below give details of this medication and how it can be obtained.

We asked Thistle Pharma (who is the supplier of this unlicensed varenicline) questions and their answers are reproduced below for services, individual stops smoking practitioners and other health professionals, and for patients.