Chantix Side Effects
Chantix has many potential side effects, including Chantix suicides and heart attacks
Chantix, or Varenicline, is a drug prescribed to help smokers quit smoking. The drug works by blocking nicotine's effects on the brain, but it also can have a number of side effects. Chantix side effects are numerous and varied, ranging from minor issues such as heartburn to life-threatening cardiac events and suicidal thoughts. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and other well-known agencies and institutions have warned consumers as well as medical professionals of the potential dangers associated with Chantix use.
Perhaps the most worrisome Chantix side effect is Chantix suicide. Anecdotal evidence has led some health care professionals to become increasingly concerned that Chantix suicides may be more prevalent than reported in medical literature thus far.
If you are concerned that you or a loved one has been harmed by the side effects of Chantix you can obtain information on Chantix lawsuits by contacting a personal injury lawyer. You should also see your doctor immediately and contact the FDAMedwatch program at 1-800-332-1088.
Chantix Suicides
Reports of Chantix suicides have sounded alarm bells around the world in recent months. The National Institutes of Health, to cite just one example, noted that some patients taking Chantix have experienced serious suicide-related side effects, among them the following:
- Trying to commit suicide
- Planning to commit suicide
- Suicidal thoughts
- Depressed mood
- Hostility
- Agitation
At this point in time the exact role of Chantix in these feelings and behaviors is still being assessed. However, doctors, researchers, regulators and others have become concerned that Chantix suicides may be more of a threat than previously thought. To learn more about Chantix suicide contact your physician and/or a defective drug lawyer in your area.
Other Chantix Side Effects
In addition to Chantix suicides there are numerous other side effects associated with Chantix use, including serious cardiac events such as heart attacks. The FDA first warned consumers and doctors of potential risks in 2006. The agency later issued a black box warning, which is the strongest action the FDA takes short of a recall. Black box warnings require the manufacturer of a drug (in this case, Pfizer) to add warnings to the medication guide that comes with the drug, as well as a prominent boxed warning on the packaging of the drug.
A report released on July 4, 2011 has added weight to concerns surrounding the potential cardiovascular issues that may arise as a result of taking Chantix. The report, which was based on the findings of a study conducted by American and British researchers, states that taking Chantix places users at a 72 percent increased risk of serious cardiac events. This is much higher than previous reports, including those released by the FDA. Published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ), the report is likely to send shockwaves through the medical community. It is likely to lead to additional Chantix lawsuits as well.
Other side effects of Chantix include nausea, constipation, rash, blisters in the mouth, heartburn, gas, headache, sleep problems, strange dreams, drowsiness, vomiting, difficulty breathing or swallowing, red, peeling, blistering or swollen skin, and swelling of the face, gums, tongue, throat, arms or legs.
Filing a Chantix Lawsuit
Drug manufacturers such as Pfizer are required by law to ensure the safety of the drugs they produce. Depending on your case and the state in which you reside, pharmaceutical, product liability, personal injury and/or wrongful death statutes may allow you to file a lawsuit for harm caused by taking Chantix. Your lawyer can cite legal theories ranging from negligence to strict liability in arguing your case. A Chantix lawsuit may enable you to gain compensation for losses such as pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost opportunities.
For more information on pharmaceutical liability and filing a Chantix-related lawsuit, contact a qualified attorney in your area. 