Quit-smoking pill sparks health warning 

Health authorities have issued a new warning on the mental health risks of a quit-smoking pill introduced to New Zealand in 2007.

More than 3300 people were prescribed Champix, which contains the chemical varenicline, in the first year of its use in New Zealand.

There were 22 reports of people experiencing depression for the first time after taking Champix. Recurrence or worsening of existing depression, and other psychiatric and neurological symptoms, were also reported.

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