Pfizer notes ‘few things that boost health like quitting smoking’

Pharmaceutical firm Pfizer has noted that there are few actions an individual can take that provides greater health benefits than the decision to quit smoking.

The company has recently updated its labelling for Chantix (varenicline), a breakthrough drug that has helped a number of individuals give up smoking, following post-marketing reports.

Based on continuing safety reviews of post-marketing reports by the US Food and Drug Administration and Pfizer, the current labelling update has called for patients and healthcare providers to consider possible side effects experienced by users of the drug.

These adverse effects include depressed mood, changes in behaviour, suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviour.

Joe Feczko, chief medical officer at Pfizer, said: “There are few things that provide greater health benefits than quitting smoking.

“When considering the use of Chantix for their patients, healthcare providers should discuss the risks of smoking, the health benefits of quitting smoking and the product’s efficacy and safety profile.”

He expressed hopes that the recent change in labelling for the product would enable vital dialogue between patients and their physicians.

In January 2007, Pfizer announced that Chantix was being appraised by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence, while it has already been accepted for use by the Scottish Medicines Consortium for use by NHSScotland.