Chantix Linked to Suicide
New information indicates that Chantix (Varenciline Tartrate), a chemical anti-smoking drug, has been linked to possible psychological side effects that could greatly increase the risk of suicide, suicidal ideation and aggressive behavior. Several reports have been made documenting users’ infliction of serious injury to themselves or committing suicide while taking the dangerous drug Chantix.
Chantix has raise so much concern for its product liability that a Public Health Advisory has been published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) educating health care professionals, patients, and care givers about the serious side effects associated with the drug. Additionally, in February of 2008, the FDA requested that Pfizer, the manufacturer of Chantix, update its warning label to include information about potential psychiatric side effects, such as possible changes in behavior and mood, along with information regarding suicide and suicide attempts.
Chantix was approved by the FDA in May of 2006 as a smoking cessation drug. The medication provides some nicotine effects to ease smoking withdrawal symptoms by acting in the areas of the brain affected by nicotine; however, not all of the effects have been positive.
The FDA website notes that, “[I]t has become increasingly likely that the severe changes in mood and behavior may be related to Chantix.” The FDA News also stated, “[I]t appears increasingly likely that there may be an association between Chantix and serious neuropsychiatric symptoms.”
In addition to the public health advisory, the FDA has documented 491 cases where users reported suicidal thinking or suicidal behavior, 420 of which are from the United States. Of the reported cases, 39 were suicides, 34 of which were from the United States.
If you, a family member, or a friend committed suicide, suffered serious self-inflicted injury, or experienced suicidal thoughts as a result of taking Chantix, contact a medical professional immediately. Then contact the skilled St. Louis personal injury lawyers at Page Cagle for a free consultation.
