F.D.A. Investigates Quit-Smoking Drug
From New
York Times
By The Associated Press
Published: November 21, 2007
WASHINGTON, Nov. 20 (AP) - Government scientists are
investigating whether a drug from Pfizer used to help smokers quit cigarettes
also increases suicidal
thoughts and violent
behavior.
The Food and Drug Administration said on Tuesday that
it had received reports of mood disorders and erratic behavior among patients
taking Chantix, Pfizer's prescription drug used to help quit smoking.
The F.D.A. said it was still gathering information about the drug, but advised
doctors to closely monitor patients taking Chantix for behavior changes.
Sales of the drug totaled $101 million last year.
The agency said it was investigating at least one incident involving Chantix
and a violent death.
Family members of a musician in Dallas, Carter
Albrecht, recently said that
Chantix might have caused the rage that led to his death. Mr. Albrecht was
shot in the head in September by his girlfriend's neighbor as he tried to
kick down the man's door. An autopsy report showed that Mr. Albrecht's blood
alcohol level was three times the legal limit.
The agency said it had asked Pfizer for information on additional cases
that might be similar.
Regulators said it was unclear if Chantix was directly responsible for the
behavior, because nicotine withdrawal often aggravates existing mental problems.
Pfizer, which is based in New York, also submitted reports to the agency
on increased drowsiness among patients taking Chantix.
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