FAA bans anti-smoking drug

The FAA has banned pilots and air traffic controllers from taking the anti-smoking medicine Chantix. The Institute for Safe Medication Practices released in May the results of a study that found evidence for the occurrence of seizures, loss of consciousness, heart attacks, vision problems and various psychiatric instabilities in those using Chantix. The FAA estimates that about 150 pilots and 30 controllers were using the medication before the ban. To make sure all pilots and controllers were notified, the FAA sent notices to registered pilots and controllers, in addition to alerting aviation medical examiners, major pilot associations and air traffic controllers union Natca. The FAA first approved the drug for pilot and controller use in July last year.