Pfizer (PFE): Another drug may harm its users

Chantix, an anti-smoking drug from Pfizer (NYSE: PFE), would seem to be good for people. Smoking causes heart and lung problems and who knows what else. The trouble with the drug is that it seems to cause heart problems, called cardiac arrhythmia, all on its own. That seems counter-productive.

The drug may also make some people crazy, at least to the level of causing suicide and depression in a portion of patients.

The Institute for Safe Medication Practices said, "Based on the data available now, the existing warnings are completely inadequate," according to The Wall Street Journal.

The news points to an ongoing problem in the drug industry. Big Pharma wants to get products to market fast and sell as much as it can. Many of the current drugs that get them revenue are going "off patent" and will be sold by generic drug companies. That kills most of the profits on the treatments.

But, in the race to get the drugs out, it seems that side effects are overlooked and overlooked often.

Profits versus people being sick or dead. Hard decision.

Douglas A. McIntyre is an editor at 247wallst.com. and author of the Ten Stocks Under $10 letter.