Operators of any form of transportation warned on the use of Pfizer's smoking-cessation drug Chantix..

May 26, 2008 - Chantix (Champix, varenicline) came in for more trouble, as a research group cited reports of physical side effects associated with the drug. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) examined adverse-event reports turned into the FDA in the fourth quarter of last year, and found 988 serious health problems reported in association with Chantix use, including seizures, dizziness, heart rhythm problems, diabetes and more than 100 accidents. The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), reviewed the report and has barred pilots and air traffic controllers from taking the drug. U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, oversees the interstate trucking and bus industries, has advised examiners that they should not give commercial motor vehicle license clearance to anyone using this drug. References: Strong Safety Signal Seen for New Varenicline Risks, ISMP.org; F.A.A. Bans Antismoking Drug, Citing Side Effects, article tools sponsored by STEPHANIE SAUL, The New York Times, 5/22/2008; Truckers Banned Anti-Smoking Drug Chantix As Well, Anna Boyd, eFluxMedia.com, 5/23/2008. See related news briefs: Pfizer Changes Chantix Label.. and Chantix Reports of Suicidal Thoughts and Aggressive and Erratic Behavior...