Although
Chantix does not contain any nicotine, it acts on nicotine receptors in the brain. This is how the drug works to help people stop smoking. By binding to nicotine receptors, it blocks the effects of nicotine at those sites, helping to prevent the pleasurable effects of smoking. However, Chantix doesn't just bind to nicotine receptors; it also acts a little bit like nicotine, which may help to prevent symptoms of nicotine withdrawal.