Pfizer says data support quit-smoking drug's safety

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Data on Pfizer Inc's smoking cessation drug Chantix continue to back the product's safety, the company said on Wednesday after a watchdog group called for stronger warnings about risks.

Based on all data including clinical trials, "we stand by the efficacy and safety profile of Chantix when used as directed, an important treatment option to help patients stop smoking," Pfizer spokeswoman Kristen Neese said in a statement.

The nonprofit Institute for Safe Medication Practices released an analysis earlier Wednesday that found more than 1,000 health problems, including 50 deaths, reported to U.S. regulators in the first quarter of 2008.

(Reporting by Lisa Richwine; Editing by Maureen Bavdek)