Chantix and Zyban Side Effects Include Suicide

Chantix and Zyban are anti-smoking prescription drugs that work on a neurological level to help smokers ease their addiction to nicotine. Since its release in 2006, Chantix has been linked with several adverse reactions, including changes in behavior, suicide, aggression and other mental health disorders.

In July 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a "black box" warning for Chantix and Zyban following reports linking the drugs with suicide and subsequent lobbying by consumer advocacy groups.

Chantix and Zyban Side Effects - Suicide, Blackouts, Depression, Aggression

The smoking cessation prescription drugs are intended to eliminate the pleasure smokers experience by blocking the nicotine-induced release of dopamine. This neuroreceptor manipulation differs from other types of anti-smoking treatments, which wean smokers off of nicotine.

The FDA has received 98 reports of Chantix suicides and 188 reports of suicide attempts, while Zyban has been linked to 14 suicides and 17 attempted suicides. In addition, Chantix has been found to cause blackouts, loss of consciousness, anxiety and vivid dreams.

The number of reports linking Chantix with serious injury exceeds the total number of reports against the top ten best-selling drugs in the world combined.

In response to the reports, the FDA is demanding GlaxoSmithKline and Pfizer Inc., the respective manufacturers of Chantix and Zyban, to reformat their packaging to properly highlight the dangers associated with the use of the medications. In addition, they are required to conduct clinical trials of the drug to evaluate the nature of the mental health relationship.

Finding a Chantix or Zyban Lawyer

Victims who have endured serious injury because of Chantix or Zyban are eligible to file personal injury claims against GlaxoSmithKline or Pfizer Inc. Pharmaceutical companies are required to thoroughly test their medications before they are released to the market, and to properly highlight the potential risks of the drugs on their packaging. Failure to do so is considered negligent and can hold them liable for damages the victim endured.

To learn more about filing a Chantix lawsuit or Zyban lawsuit, contact the skilled attorneys of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overhotlz today at (888) 255-2956.