Principi prodded VA on Chantix

Ex-secretary asked if use would continue Audrey Hudson and Jen Haberkorn Wednesday, July 9, 2008 contacted colleagues at his old agency as the chief lobbyist for drug maker Pfizer Inc. earlier this year, looking for updates on whether his company's smoking-cessation drug Chantix would remain on the VA's list of approved prescription drugs amid new warnings of dangerous side effects. The government had just banned Chantix for use by pilots and air traffic controllers because of potential side effects on alertness and motor skills and had more broadly warned that the medicine could cause depression, suicidal thoughts and attempted suicide. Pfizer wanted insight on the VA's intent for the drug, which has been prescribed to thousands of veterans. Pfizer officials maintain that Mr. Principi's contacts at his old agency did not... [read full story]