Is Chantix Safe?

Those desperate for a way to quit smoking often look for ways to aid their seemingly endless relationship with tobacco. Faced with multiple failed attempts at quitting many are looking at prescription drugs such as Chantix. But the first question should be “Is Chantix safe?” To explore this question, let’s look at some recent research, possible side effects and contraindications.

Science Says…

The most recent news on Chantix was released June 19 of this year (2011). The FDA issued an alert after reviewing the results of a double blind placebo study of Chantix. After following 700 smokers for 12 weeks, twice as many patients receiving Chantix had heart related problems rather than those getting the placebo. Chantix has also received a post market requirement by the FDA in 2009 to include psychological issues, such as depression, aggression and suicide as potential side effects.

Drug Makers Warn…

The most common side effects are listed as nausea, sleep problems, gas, constipation and vomiting, but that is not all the information available from Pfizer, the maker of the drug. They warn on their website (Chantix.com), “Some people have had changes in behavior, hostility, agitation, depressed mood, suicidal thoughts or actions while using CHANTIX to help them quit smoking.” The site warns that these symptoms may happen during or even after treatment with the drug. They also warn about driving or operating machinery, possible allergic reactions, and a rash that can become life threatening. Pfizer says if you “have a rash with peeling skin or blisters in your mouth, stop taking CHANTIX and get medical attention right away.”

Don’t Take Chantix If…

Some people should also not take Chantix. People who are using another type of smoking cessation aid should not take the drug, and people who have a history of heart problems or psychiatric problems should strongly consider another stop smoking aid. Depression symptoms may worsen while on Chantix. The drug has not been studied in pregnant women or in breastfeeding mothers, so it is not known if it will harm the baby. Chantix may also react with insulin, asthma medications and blood thinners.

Only your doctor and you can decide

In the end, only you and your doctor can decide if Chantix is safe for someone with your medical history. With this information though, you may now have specific questions to bring up to your doctor, some side effects to watch for and a more informed choice to make.

Sources:

http://www.chantix-legal.com/news/2011/06/20/fda-warns-of-new-heart-risks-associated-with-chantix/#more-702
http://www.chantix.com/side-effects-safety-info.aspx

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