Thursday, May 22, 2008
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[ECP] Health Alert - Science
FAA Bans Pilots' and Air Controllers' Use of Chantix

The Federal Aviation Administration has banned use of the antismoking medication Chantix (varenicline) among pilots and air traffic controllers, based on an examination of adverse events linked to the drug, the New York Times reports.

A watchdog group, the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, looked at adverse effects reported to the FDA and showed its findings to the FAA. Pfizer, Chantix's manufacturer, said that the drug's label included warnings about psychiatric problems and impaired driving, according to the story.

The Institute's executive summary states: "We have immediate safety concerns about the use of varenicline among persons operating aircraft, trains, buses and other vehicles, or in other settings where a lapse in alertness or motor control could lead to massive, serious injury."

New York Times story (One-time registration required)

Institute for Safe Medication Practices report (Free)

Chantix prescribing information (Free PDF)

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