Chantix effective

Executive Summary

Continuous smoking cessation rates for four weeks were significantly higher for patients taking varenicline tartrate (Pfizer's Chantix) 1 mg twice daily compared to placebo (48% versus 17.1%), according to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine August 14/28. The Pfizer-sponsored, randomized study included 638 smokers between ages 18 to 65 at seven U.S. sites, Mitchell Nides, PhD, et al., say. The researchers compared three dosages of varenicline, bupropion hydrochloride (GlaxoSmithKline's Zyban) and placebo for seven weeks with follow up through week 52. Efficacy was determined by exhaled carbon monoxide tests at weeks 12, 24, and 52, and daily dairies recording the number of cigarettes smoked. Chantix, 1 mg twice daily, "effectively helped subjects quit smoking, with response rates three times higher than those for placebo....Efficacy was maintained in the non-drug treatment phase through week 52," Nides et al. say. FDA approved prescription Chantix in May 1("The Tan Sheet" May 15, 2006, In Brief)...