Chantix Side Effects: Quit-Smoking Drug Causes Suicidal Thoughts
Quit-smoking drug Chantix's side effects may be more dangerous than originally thought.
A new study has been released that finds individuals using Chantix are eight times more likely to be linked with depressive thoughts or suicidal behavior. This is in comparison with other smoking-cessation drugs such as nicotine patches.
This isn't the first time studies - or warnings - have been issued about Chantix's possible mental side effects.
In 2009, the FDA put a black-box warning on the drug. It's one of the strongest warnings the FDA gives. The warning said that the drug has the "risk of serious mental health events including changes in behavior, depressed mood, hostility, and suicidal thoughts."
These findings contradict a recent FDA study that showed there were no increased risksgm of hospitalization for psychiatric problems for Chantix users. However, it's unsurprising considering the FDA itself acknowledged the studies were flawed, reports Reuters.
Pfizer, the maker of Chantix, is running its own large-scale study which will be completed in 2017. For now, the drug manufacturer says that there is no clinical data to support the study's findings. They cited to the FDA's conclusions.
Consumers that are interested in quitting smoking might want to take note of this recent study.
Chantix is already known to cause issues for patients who have existing mental health disorders, or have a history of mental health problems. Individuals that fall into this category might be advised to try other smoking-cessation products before turning to Chantix. And it might be a good idea to consult a doctor to discuss Chantix's side effects before using the drug.
Related Resources:
- FDA Should Warn Smokers of Increased Danger of Chantix, Study Says (ABC News)
- Pharmaceutical Drug Liability (FindLaw)
- Chantix Suicide: Pfizer Covers Up Drug Deaths? (FindLaw's Injured)
- Stop-Smoking Drugs Will Carry Suicide Warning (FindLaw's Injured))