Advertisements for Chantix, Pfizer’s smoking cessation drug, are being questioned by consumer groups and publications. While the ads claim to be about smoking cessation, they are really ads for Chantix. Consumer Reports, the nonprofit consumer protection organization, has called Pfizer’s ads “sneaky.”

What’s it all about?

It you watch television, you’ve likely seen commercials for a website called My Time To Quit, www.mytimetoquit.com. The website is about quitting smoking – and while it does provide information about how to quit, consumer groups say that the site is really just an advertisement for Pfizer’s smoking cessation drug Chantix. Most consumers don’t realize that unless they click on links which provide further information. While the site has been called sneaky, it does seem to be legal. It has been reported that Pfizer has since dumped the ad agency that came up with idea. Sales of the drug have dropped by nearly 40% as of late – and while some of that may be due to questionable marketing tactics, more of it is likely due to the drug’s serious side effects.

Chantix side effects

Chantix side effects and injuries have been in the news since it was approved by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006. Among those side effects are suicidal thoughts, depression and violent behavior. Consumer Reports noted that “a number of adverse event reports were made to the FDA following Chantix’s release to the market such as ‘serious neuropsychiatric symptoms,’ including ‘changes in behavior, agitation, depressed mood, suicidal ideation, and attempted and completed suicide.’” The FDA now requires Pfizer to include a warning on the drug which reads:

Some patients have reported changes in behavior, agitation, depressed mood, suicidal thoughts or actions when attempting to quit smoking while taking CHANTIX or after stopping CHANTIX. If either you, your family, or caregiver notice agitation, depressed mood, or changes in behavior that are not typical for you, or if you develop suicidal thoughts or actions, stop taking CHANTIX and call your doctor right away. Also tell your doctor about any history of depression or other mental health problems before taking CHANTIX, as these symptoms may worsen while taking CHANTIX.

Know your rights

Whether you find these ads “sneaky” or legitimate, all consumers should know their rights when it comes to potentially dangerous products with serious side effects – regardless of how that information is delivered. If you’ve been injured due to Chantix, contact an experienced product liability attorney to discuss your situation and evaluate your options. Consultations with an experienced lawyer are free, without obligation and are strictly confidential.