Transdermal system for varenicline

Disclosed is a transdermal composition comprising varenicline or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt, and further comprising a backing sheet having opposing surfaces that are respectively distal and proximal to the skin when applied and a coating on the proximal surface of the backing sheet, wherein the coating comprises (a) an adhesive and (b) varenicline or its pharmaceutically acceptable salt in a water-soluble form in a therapeutically effective total amount and dispersed in a matrix. Also disclosed is a method of making the said adhesive matrix patch for transdermal delivery of varenicline.