In November the Food and Drug Administration issued a warning on Pfizer’s smoking cessation drug Chantix after reports that many people taking the drug have experienced depression, suicidal thoughts and behavior - often times without the presence or history of any mental illness or psychiatric conditions. At the time of the warning there were 55 suicides that had been reported by people taking Chantix in the U.S. (there have been similar reports in Europe where the drug is marketed as Champix). The FDA is expected to take several months in a safety review of the drug.

In the meantime there is concern that the warnings that have been issued might not reach those people who are taking the drug or those people that are considering trying Chantix. When the FDA issues these types warnings, there is no guarantee that those taking the drug will hear about it.

The side effects that are mentioned on both the TV commercials for Chantix and on Pfizer’s website make no mention of the suicidal ideation and depression that have prompted the warnings. Hopefully prescribing doctors will let their patients know about the potential risks of Chantix.

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