Violence prompts Chantix lawsuits

A number of Chantix users who have suffered the effects of aggressive behavior have filed Chantix lawsuits. Aggressive behavior as a result of Chantix use ranges from mood swings to irrational violence, suicidal ideation, and even suicide.
Given the frequency and nature of Chantix side effects it isn’t surprising that experts concerned with public safety have questioned the appropriateness of prescribing Chantix to people who carry weapons in their line of work. The problems presented by Chantix side effects, i.e. aggressive behavior, illogical hostility, violent outbursts, and suicidal tendencies are even more dangerous when the individual being affected carries a weapon as a requirement of their profession. Experts recommended that individuals prescribing Chantix take into consideration the negative effects of the drug.

A woman whose husband took his own life after suffering a terrifying mental illness she believes was caused by an anti-smoking drug is to sue its manufacturer. Tricia McLinden, from Lochwinnoch, England, is planning legal action against the pharmaceuticals giant Pfizer, which makes smoking cessation drug Chantix. McLinden claims her 48-year-old husband, a former gamekeeper with no previous history of psychiatric ill-health, had suffered delusions, paranoia and debilitating physical symptoms after taking the drug in the weeks leading up to his death. He had been prescribed Chantix by his GP to help him quit his 40-a-day smoking habit. On one occasion his wife returned home to find him shaking and terrified.

According to a study presented in the Annals of Pharmacotherapy, co-authored by Thomas J. Moore, it would be prudent for there to be a Chantix ban in place for military personnel, police, and others who frequently carry a weapon in their line of work. The recommendation is based simply on the increased risk of fatal or near fatal events among those with ready access to weapons. Thomas J. Moore is a senior scientist for drug safety and policy employed by the Institute for Safe Medication Practices.
The study included 77 cases in which Chantix side effects were present. Moore and his research associates examined 26 of the cases scrutinizing every detail. 10 of the 26 cases involved some type of physical assault. 9 of the 26 cases involved homicidal thoughts.