Chantix Cancer Claims
Chantix is a prescription medication that is used by people who are trying to quit smoking. You may have seen advertising on TV featuring Ray Liotta. In September of 2021, Pfizer issued a recall of all lots of Chantix. Manufacturing contamination could mean people taking Chantix have a higher probability of developing cancer. Read this article for more information about Chantix cancer claims.
Prescription Smoking Cessation
Chantix is a prescription oral medication for people trying to quit smoking. Dosage varies per patient and treatment plan. Some patients start at a lower dose and gradually increase it and others take a steady dosage. While this sounds like a simple option to quit smoking, Chantix may pose other health risks to those taking it.
Quitting Smoking Is Healthier
People who are trying to quit smoking are usually looking to lead a healthier lifestyle. Smoking poses a variety of health risks including lung cancer as well as many other cancers, coronary heart disease, gum disease, reproductive issues, and more. When you quit smoking your risk of developing these health conditions lowers over time. Within 10-15 years of quitting, your risk of developing lung cancer is cut in half. It takes even less time to lower your chances of developing less serious health conditions. When you quit smoking to improve your health, you do not want your method of quitting to pose another threat to your health.
How Chantix Works
Chantix works by attaching to nicotine receptors in the brain, so that nicotine itself cannot. Over time the body forgets about nicotine and decreases the urge to smoke. While Chantix may help people quit smoking, there are known side effects.
Known Side Effects
Side effects of Chantix can range from mild to extreme. Known side effects include:
- Sleepwalking
- Rashes
- Swelling of the face, mouth, throat or neck
- Increased irritability
- Depressed moods
- Suicidal thoughts
- Trouble sleeping
- Nausea – mild or extreme
- Cardiovascular problems
The listed known side effects do not mention the increased risk of cancer. However, a tested batch of the prescription medication contained dangerous levels of nitrosamine, a cancer-causing impurity.
Nitrosamine In Chantix
Nitrosamine is common in certain foods such as grilled meats and dairy, and can also be found in water. While Chantix is not the only prescription medicine to contain levels of nitrosamine, the levels of nitrosamine in this batch of Chantix were higher than the daily limit. Prolonged ingestion of high levels of nitrosamine can greatly increase your risk of developing a variety of different cancers. Since most patients take this prescription for a prolonged amount of time, this puts them at higher risk.
Chantix Voluntary Recall
The first batch of Chantix containing unacceptable levels of nitrosamine was recalled in August 2021. Since then, Pfizer issued a voluntary recall of all Chantix. While Pfizer maintains that the long-term usage and effects of Chantix are positive, Chantix is not currently available. Only time will tell if this recall will lead to the disappearance of Chantix from the market. Generic forms are still available by prescription. Other prescription medicines have been taken off the market permanently, starting with only one initial recall.
The FDA commented on the Chantix recall. The agency said the “health benefits of stopping smoking outweigh the cancer risk from the nitrosamine impurity in varenicline.” But the problem is, most people are not aware Chantix could give them cancer because it is not disclosed in the warnings and possible side effects.
Dangerous Prescription Medications
In 2019, Zantac (ranitidine) was recalled for a cancer-causing impurity. Several other leading prescription and over-the-counter medications have also been recalled for impurities introduced in manufacturing. These impurities cause side effects that aren’t listed in manufacturer warnings. Learn more about dangerous drug lawsuits.
Chantix Cancer Attorney
If you or a loved one has taken Chantix and developed certain types of cancer, you may be entitled to compensation. For more information on your legal rights, reach out to an experienced attorney today. At Kane and Silverman we care about your health and wellness. Contact us to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced and trusted lawyers.