|
Chantix is a smoking cessation medication marketed by Pfizer, Inc. that was approved by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006. Chantix side effects may include suicidal thoughts, depression and even violent behavior. In September 2007, Chantix side effects were implicated in a bizarre death.
The Chantix label warns of various side effects, including nausea, changes in dreaming, constipation, gas and vomiting. But those warnings are more prominent and easier to find than the fine print on the package insert that warns of the possibility of psychotic and suicidal behavior. But since its approval, more and more Chantix users have reported these terrifying side effects.
Chantix works by blocking nicotine receptors, thereby reducing cravings for and decreases the pleasurable effects of cigarettes and other tobacco products. Chantix is the first such nicotine receptor partial agonist approved by the FDA. It is an alternative to other smoking cessation drugs and nicotine replacement therapy.
Chantix and the resulting side effects may have played a part in the death of prominent Dallas musician Carter Albrecht. Albrecht, best known as a member of Edie Brickell and the New Bohemians, started taking Chantix in late August 2007. He was well liked in the community, with no prior history of violence. Immediately after starting to take Chantix, Albrecht began to complain of vivid, hallucinatory dreams (a poorly documented Chantix side effect). About a week after he started taking Chantix, Albrecht had a violent encounter with his girlfriend. The episode occurred after Albrecht had consumed a couple of alcoholic drinks, and while on Chantix. Albrecht’s girlfriend reported that he was confused, and did not recognize her. Before the night was over, Albrecht had been shot dead by a terrified neighbor on whose property he had trespassed.
After the publicity surrounding the celebrity of Albrecht’s death, many other Chantix users complained of similar episodes of violent or suicidal behavior, especially when they had consumed alcohol. The Chantix label does caution against alcohol use, but it does not warn that drinking alcohol while taking Chantix could lead to violent or suicidal behavior. Furthermore, even though a large portion of the tobacco-addicted population is more likely to consume large amounts of alcohol, Chantix’s reaction with alcohol has not been adequately studied in clinical trials.
Cases that are currently being investigated include those where the victim has no history of violent or suicidal behavior, and has an uncharacteristic outburst of violence, causing harm to him/herself and/or others. Other cases being investigated are those where involving suicide.
Massachusetts Attorneys.com provides a directory of Massachusetts lawyers who offer free case evaluations. To contact an attorney reviewing Chantix suicide cases, please fill out the free Chantix injury evaluation form below.
Once you submit your form, your contact information will be sent to the sponsored Massachusetts attorney or law firm listed below. That lawyer will review your form in accordance with the site terms and conditions and may contact you to discuss your case. There is no cost or obligation for this service. This form will be sent to:
Attorney Justin R. Cook
Sheff Law Offices
Ten Tremont Street
7th Floor
Boston, MA 02108
617-227-7000 X15
Case Description*
Please explain exactly what happened, trying to state
as thoroughly as possible who you believe was responsible
and why you believe that person was negligent:
|
Comments / Additional Information
Is there anything else that would assist us in
understanding the facts of your case?
|
 |
