Chantix Heart Problems Uncovered

The list of side effects associated with the smoking cessation drug Chantix seems to be growing every day, with the Food and Drug Administration’s recent announcement that there is an increased risk of heart attack in patients who take the drug in order to quit smoking. Other adverse cardiovascular effects have been noted as well, especially for those with cardiovascular disease. These side effects have been added to an extensive list, which includes diabetes, psychiatric problems, depression, suicide ideation, aggressive behavior, and Chantix blackouts.

A clinical trial reviewed by the Food and Drug Administration before their press release regarding the cardiovascular side effects revolved around a group of patients, 35-75 years of age, all with some kind of controlled cardiovascular problem. Chantix was once again proven to be a remarkably effective smoking cessation aid, with 19 percent of patients who took Chantix still smoke-free a year later, as opposed to only 7 percent of patients who took the placebo.

However, the group that was taking Chantix experienced far more heart problems than those in the control group, with some being hospitalized for chest pain and others experiencing non-fatal heart attacks. Still others experienced different heart problems that required medical treatment. The risk for Chantix heart problems looks small, and only seems to be of serious concern for patients who already have some sort of cardiovascular disease. However, when considered with the multiple other side effects of Chantix, many medical experts are questioning whether the drug is worth the risk.

Although Chantix has proven to be one of the most effective smoking cessation drugs available to patients, its effectiveness comes at a price. Side effects of the medication can be devastating, and can range from mild to deadly. Chantix blackouts can cause motor vehicle accidents, while Chantix depression can lead, in some cases, to suicide – and a Pennsylvania case linked Chantix to the murder-suicide of a couple. Most patients believe that for many, there was not sufficient warning of Chantix side effects. If this is proven true in court, millions of dollars in damages could be awarded to those affected by Chantix side effects.