My Quit Journey: Week Two with the Varenicline Service

Published: 12/06/25

It’s been just over a week since I took that first tablet. A significant step towards a better life for myself and my family. I wasn’t sure what to expect physically or mentally, but I’ve already learned alot.

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The first few days were surprisingly manageable. I still smoked, as expected during the initial phase, but something started to shift. The cravings didn’t feel quite as sharp. The routine of lighting up first thing in the morning or during a break felt less enjoyable. It’s subtle, but it’s noticeable.  

I had my first follow-up appointment at the pharmacy a few days ago. The same friendly faces greeted me. The pharmacist asked how I was getting on, we talked about side effects (thankfully, nothing so far), how I was feeling, and how I was preparing for my quit date. Again, no pressure, just support. It felt like a check-in with someone who genuinely cared. One thing that really stood out to me was the carbon monoxide (CO) reading. I’d never done one before. It’s a simple breath test, but seeing the number on the screen, seeing the actual impact smoking was having on my body was a wake-up call. It made the whole thing feel more real. More urgent. And it gave me a baseline to work from. I’m already looking forward to seeing that number drop over time. What’s struck me most is how much this service is about partnership. I’m not just being handed a prescription and sent on my way. There’s a rhythm to it: appointment, consultation, encouragement, and accountability. It’s structured but not overbearing. It’s not just the pharmacist. The whole pharmacy team has been involved, from the dispensers preparing the medicine, to the technician who took my CO2 levels, to the pharmacist giving me pearls of wisdom - everyone plays a part. It’s clear they’re all invested in helping their patients quit, not just ticking boxes, but genuinely supporting change. 

I’ve also started to notice how much of my smoking was tied to habit, not just addiction. The walk to the shop, the chat outside with a colleague, the “reward” after a long day. Varenicline is helping take the edge off the cravings, but the pharmacy team is helping me rethink the routines and think about triggers. 

My official quit date is just around the corner. I’m anxious, of course. But I’m also ready. For the first time in a long time, I feel like I’ve got the right tools and the right people around me. 

This is far from over. But it’s clear that community pharmacy can play a huge role in helping people change their lives. 

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