By the end of 2006, Chantix registered among a relatively small group of 35 drugs, out of all medications, that accounted for 100 or more reports of serious harm per calendar quarter. Other medications in this group tend to be powerful painkillers and drugs that affect the immune system.
By the middle of last year, Chantix ranked third among all drugs in reported problems. It moved into first place in the last quarter of 2007, with 988 reports.
The study identified 173 accidents involving Chantix that resulted in injuries. Falls accounted for the largest category, with a total of 77 cases. There were also 28 traffic accidents. The potential causes included loss of consciousness, dizziness, confusion and muscle spasms.
Dr. Martina Flammer, a Pfizer medical director, said the company's own analysis did not appear to indicate a significant problem for drivers.
Aviation officials said they were not aware of any accidents involving Chantix. The FAA generally places tight restrictions on the use of mood-altering medications by pilots; antidepressants, for example, are banned.
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ricardo.alonso-zaldivar@latimes.com
