Expert: Michael Anisfeld - 5/20/2008

Question
Hello Michael.

My girlfriend is taking Chantix.  She has a prescription of course (and it seems to be working!).  To save money, her friend gave here an unopened, unused pack of Chantix--her friend stopped taking it with no success.  The unopened pack was about 1.5 years old, from what we understand. So it's well under two years old, but still not fresh from the pharmacy.  I've read that most pharmaceuticals have a VERY long shelf life.  Does that apply to Chantix?  Will these pills (most likely) be as effective?  Could they enhance side-effects?  I've told her they should be no different than brand new, but thought I'd consult an expert.  She is just looking for some assurance.

Answer
Look at the outside of the carton the Chantix came in. If the expiration date is still within its time period, and the drug is the exact dose prescirbed she will be OK. If either the friend's drug is a different dose, or it is outside its expiration dating DO NOT use it.

If there is no expiration date (it came in a pharmacy bottle) DO NOT take it.