Chantix

Many smokers, hoping to avoid the harm they are doing to their body from smoking and unable to quit on their own, have turned to medications to reduce the cravings and the effects of nicotine withdrawal. Chantix is one such smoking cessation medication. However, if you have taken Chantix to quit smoking, be aware that it has been associated with serious mood swings that may result in suicide or violent behavior.

In 2008, after receiving over 5,000 complaints about the side effects of Chantix, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning stating that "serious neuropsychiatric symptoms have occurred in patients taking Chantix." These symptoms include hostility, agitation, depressed mood, suicidal thoughts or actions, anxiety, panic, aggression, anger, mania, abnormal sensations, hallucinations, paranoia, or confusion.

Pfizer, Inc., the maker of Chantix, responded with its own warning, adding the following to the Chantix label: "Tell your doctor about any history of depression or other mental health problems before taking Chantix" as neuropsychiatric symptoms may worsen while taking the medication.

More than 50 reported suicides, 199 reports of suicidal thoughts, and 417 complaints of depression have been associated with the use of Chantix. In addition, other side effects from Chantix have resulted in skin and allergic reactions, including rash, swelling, redness, and peeling of the skin, swelling of the face, mouth, and throat that can cause trouble breathing.

If you have been taking Chantix and have noticed mood swings that can endanger you or others, you should contact your physician immediately. You and your doctor will be able to determine whether the continued use of Chantix is beneficial to you.

You can report any serious adverse events associated with the use of this drug directly to the FDA on MedWatch.

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