Pfizer’s Champix ‘can help depression sufferers quit smoking’

Pfizer has reported data from a new study that demonstrates the benefits its smoking cessation aid Champix can provide to major depressive disorder sufferers.

Results from a Pfizer-commissioned trial have been published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, revealing that smokers with a past or present diagnosis of major depressive disorders who took the varenicline therapy had a significantly higher chance of kicking the habit than those on placebo.

These findings were consistent with previous Champix studies among general populations without psychiatric disorders, with the treatment causing no deterioration in patients' mood or anxiety levels. 

Dr Berkeley Phillips, UK medical director of Pfizer, said: “A significant number of smokers seeking treatment for smoking cessation have a history of depression. Studies have also shown that smokers with mental health problems are heavier and more dependent smokers."

This comes after data from a phase IV trial earlier this year showed that the treatment can also help people who have made a previous attempt to quit smoking with Champix and either did not succeed in quitting, or had relapsed after treatment.