The stop-smoking drug varenicline (Chantix) has been widely advertised on television. The commercials encourage people to ask their doctor if Chantix is right for them.
But this week, the Food and Drug Administration issued a new safety announcement about Chantix.
In it, the agency warns that the medication can change the way people react to alcohol. There are reports of aggressive or violent behavior associated with this combination. Some people have amnesia for their actions.
Readers have reported some frightening situations in which a person taking Chantix reacted very badly after a few drinks. In one tragic occurrence, a soldier using Chantix to try to quit smoking committed murder and suicide after drinking.
Danger of Seizures
In addition, the FDA warns that Chantix can trigger seizures, even in some people who have no history of epilepsy.
As important as it is to quit smoking-and it is one of the most important steps to be taken to prevent disease-some people cannot tolerate the side effects of Chantix. It is crucial to understand the range of reactions that some people experience before starting on this drug.
