Smoking cessation drug still works for many

  • Published
  • By By Lt. Col. (Dr.) Antonio J. Eppolito
  • 377th Medical Group
KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, New Mexico --  Some members of the Kirtland AFB community have expressed concerns regarding the smoking cessation drug Chantix. The pharmaceutical industry, the Food and Drug Administration, and medical professionals, including our 377th Medical Group personnel, are very much aware of the controversy and misinformation surrounding Chantix.

According to a statement published by the FDA in November 2007, the FDA informed health care professionals of reports of suicidal thoughts and aggressive and erratic behavior in some patients who have taken Chantix.

The FDA assessment revealed that many of the cases reflect new onset of depressed mood, changes in emotion and behavior within days to weeks of initiating Chantix treatment. The role of Chantix is these cases is not entirely clear because smoking cessation, with or without treatment, is in itself associated with nicotine withdrawal symptoms and thus can exacerbate underlying psychiatric illness.

However, not all patients described in these cases had preexisting psychiatric illness so healthcare professionals were advised that all patients taking Chantix be carefully screened and monitored closely for behavior and mood changes.

Chantix is very much still available and approved by the FDA and many thousands of patients have experienced tremendous success with the drug. But it is not the only treatment for smoking cessation. It is one of many options that patients can choose in consultation with a medical provider. As with any treatment option, the provider will discuss the pros and cons of the medication and any possible side effects.

The smoking cessation program offered at the 377th MDG in concert with the Health and Wellness Center has been tremendously successful and we consider it one of our most valued services.

If you wish to quit smoking do not hesitate to contact your primary care provider at the clinic at 846-3200 or self refer to the smoking cessation classes offered at the HAWC at 846-0646.