Investigations by The Washington Times and ABC News have recently revealed evidence that the VA is using soldiers diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder as "human guinea pigs" to test Chantix, the brand name for the generic drug varenicline. According to the reports, doctors did not warn study participants about the risks for three months despite knowing that Chantix is linked to suicidal tendencies and neuropsychiatric behavior. It was not until one veteran who was taking Chantix suffered a psychotic episode and had a violent incident with police that study participants were warned.
News about the risks associated with Chantix were made public a few months ago and many people are just now discovering that their health problems, depression and suicidal tendencies may have been related to their use of the drug. The FDA issued a warning in November, 2007, that patients taking Chantix may experience "suicidal thoughts, and aggressive and erratic behavior." In May, 2008, the FDA issued a public advisory in which it states: "as FDA’s review of the data has progressed it has become increasingly likely that the severe changes in mood and behavior may be related to Chantix."
The Anderson Law Firm, located in Tampa, Florida, is currently investigating claims that Chantix has caused persons taking Chantix to experience serious adverse side effects. Please contact us if you have experienced problems using Chantix.
