Pfizer updates anti-smoking therapy
03 Jul 2009
Pfizer is to update all labelling for its smoking cessation drug Chantix after agreeing with the US Food and Drug Administration that more safety information should be included.
The guidance will include warnings about side effects of the drug, which can include serious symptoms such as risk of suicide, skin reactions and neuropsychiatric events.
Dr Briggs Morrison, senior vice president of primary care development group at Pfizer, said: "The labelling update underscores the important role of healthcare providers in treating smokers attempting to quit and provides specific information about Chantix and instructions that physicians and patients should follow closely."
Pfizer says it will communicate with heathcare workers and patients about the changes to the labelling through a combination of letters and website updates.
The doctor added that stopping smoking is one of the best things people can do for their health, but the process can be very difficult.
Pfizer has recently sold three potential therapies to the drug company Graceway Pharmaceuticals which include treatments for skin conditions such as acne.
