06/02/2008- FDA is no investigating Pfizer's anti-smoking drug Chantix after last week's report about serious adverse side effects.

It was previously known that Chantix, who is used to help quit smoking, can cause psychiatric side effects, such as depression and suicide. These side effects were clearly mentioned on drug packaging. Besides, before approving the drug in 2006, FDA consulted with Pfizer about the most effective dosage of the drug and concluded that the drug is more effective in higher doses, but the side effects are also stronger. Therefore, FDA approved the dosages reported by Pfizer as the most effective and the safest, according to numerous trials conducted by the company.

Last week an independent Institute for Safe Medication Practices reported that there are hundreds of car accidents and heart events associated with Chantix use. The report significantly dropped drug sales and prescriptions, and also urged the need of immediate investigation to ensure drug safety.

After this annoying report FDA started investigating all the cases one by one, but the agency reported, that it will take time to finalise the investigation.

"We are not able to put the amount of resources against this we would need to do it in a very prompt matter," said FDA representative.

Next week Pfizer will also hold a round-table to discuss anti-smoking drug Chantix with media representative. However, the final decision will come later from FDA after the investigation is completed.