Chantix side effects could lead to risk of suicide or serious injury
Since its approval in May 2006, many people have turned to Chantix to stop smoking. While the medication was initially presented as one with very few side effects, Chantix has since been associated with numerous reports of suicides and other potentially serious injuries caused by unusual behavior while taking the drug. Pfizer, the drug’s maker, failed to warn consumers about these psychological side effects of Chantix, and lawsuits are being reviewed nationwide on behalf of users who suffered a serious physical injury or death as a result of suicide.
>>INFORMATION: Chantix Suicide Lawsuits
Chantix (varenicline) works by blocking nicotine receptor sites in the brain. This helps to ease the nicotine withdrawal symptoms and reduces the pleasurable effects of smoking for users who are trying to quit. The most common reported side effects of Chantix were said to be headaches, nausea and unusual dreams. However, a growing number of users have reported serious psychiatric Chantix side effects, resulting in uncharacteristic behavior, thoughts of suicide and some who took their own life.
On February 1, 2008, the FDA announced new warnings which will be added to the label about the possible risk of suicide as a side effect of Chantix. They indicated that it is increasingly likely that Chantix is associated with the recent reports of bizarre behavior among users. In some cases, these Chantix side effects appeared shortly after the medication was started, and some users report that the symptoms continued even after they stop taking the drug.
The pre-market trials for Chantix did not include participants with prior psychiatric conditions, and the drug makers failed to adequately evaluate the risk of suicidality, or suicidal behavior, among users of their drug. Their failure to properly research their Medication and warn about all possible Chantix side effects, deprived users of the opportunity to decide for themselves whether they wished to expose themselves to the possible risks associated with the drug.
The new warnings which now appear on the drug’s label come too late for many who have already suffered serious physical injury or death as a result of unusual behavior while taking Chantix to stop smoking. The risk of Chantix side effects has been especially problematic for those with pre-existing psychatric conditions, as the drug could worsen previous symptoms which had been under good control, resulting in a recurrence or worsening of psychiatric illness.
The Chantix lawyers at Saiontz & Kirk, P.A. are reviewing potential lawsuits on behalf of users who have suffered a severe, self-inflicted injury or death as a result of suicide after taking the medication to help them stop smoking. There are no fees or expenses unless a recover is obtained. To determine if you, a friend or family member may have suffered problems as a side effect of Chantix, request a free consultation.
