Pilots Banned From Taking Chantix

Scott Kappes

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Yesterday the Federal Aviation Administration removed the popular smoking cessation drug Chantix from the list of medications that pilots are allowed to take. The decision from the administration comes after a new study linked the medication to mental confusion and other problems that could place airline passengers at risk.

FAA spokesman Les Dorr said the agency took that step after reviewing the study, which raises concerns about Chantix use by people operating vehicles.

The study links the drug to loss of consciousness, lapses in alertness, dizziness and muscle spasms. Dorr said the FAA has not heard of crashes linked to Chantix. The FAA will send letters about the change to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, pilots' unions and people "we know are taking" the drug.

Over the past two years the FDA has updated the label of Chantix several times. In February of this year the FDA revised the label to warn that the drug had been linked to depression, suicidal ideation, and suicide. Last week the FDA approved a new Chantix pharmacist medication guide  for distribution.

In the last quarter of 2007 Chantix accounted for almost 1000 reports of serious injury. This is more than any other drug. Only 35 drugs accounted for 100 reports of serious injury.