Pfizer’s Champix shows benefits for smokers with depression

Pfizer has published data from a clinical trial of its smoking cessation aid Champix, demonstrating the specific benefits it can provide to those with a past or present diagnosis of major depressive disorder.

A double-blind, randomised clinical trial of the varenicline-based therapy showed that it was able to help a higher proportion of patients quit the habit after 12 and 52 weeks than placebo.

Moreover, psychiatric scales included for safety assessments did not show a difference between varenicline and placebo, meaning Champix was able to achieve its efficacy and safety goals.

Dr Steven Romano, senior vice-president and head of the medicines development group at Pfizer's global primary care business unit, said: "The results from this study offer important information which contributes to a further understanding of the clinical profile of Champix."

Champix has been available in Europe since 2006 and is also marketed in the US under the name Chantix.

Earlier this year, the company published data showing the benefits offered by its product in comparison to nicotine replacement therapy patches.