About Chantix
Chantix (varenicline), also known as Champix in Europe and elsewhere, is a highly popular anti-smoking drug manufactured by Pfizer. Unlike some smoking cessation aids, Chantix contains no nicotine. According to Pfizer, the medication works by binding to and blocking nicotine receptors in the brain, with the goal of removing the pleasure associated with smoking.
For more information on Chantix and its effects, contact Chantix lawyers the firm .
Chantix Side Effects - A Brief History
In May 2006, the Food and Drug Administration approved Chantix for sale in the United States. Chantix was also approved for sale in Europe later that year. Not long after the drug’s market debut, however, the FDA began receiving reports of serious side effects. People taking Chantix complained of both mental and physical symptoms, including:
- Depression
- Nightmares
- Anger and Aggression
- Mood Swings
- Suicidal Tendencies
- Severe Skin Reactions
- Abdominal Pain
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Visual Impairment
In late 2007, the FDA issued a public advisory regarding Chantix, stating that the agency was investigating several reports of aggressive behavior, suicidal thoughts, and completed suicides in people taking Chantix. Several months later, in early 2008, the FDA issued another notice alerting the public to updated product warnings about the psychological side effects of Chantix.
On July 1, 2009, the FDA announced that Chantix would be required to carry a black box warning - the agency’s most urgent warning - regarding the drug’s psychological risks.
To date, the FDA has received over 90 reports of suicide and over 180 reports of attempted suicide in Chantix users.
About Pfizer
Pfizer Inc. is one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, employing over 80,000 people in some 150 countries around the globe. According to the company’s website, it pulled in over $48 billion in revenues in the year 2008.
In addition to Chantix, Pfizer also manufactures a number of well-known medications, including Lipitor and Viagra.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love has suffered psychological or physical side effects while taking anti-smoking drug Chantix, you may be entitled to claim damages from its manufacturer. To explore your legal options, contact a Chantix lawyer at the firm by calling today.