People who purchased Chantix during a six-year period could be eligible to receive money from a $44 million class action settlement over allegations that the smoking-cessation drug contained an undisclosed nitrosamine, a substance that can cause cancer.

Pfizer has agreed to pay $44 million to settle a lawsuit, although the company denies the allegations and maintains that it did nothing wrong. Also, the court has not sided with Pfizer or the plaintiffs.

If the settlement receives final approval, eligible consumers who submit valid claims could receive a portion of the fund. The amount will depend on the number of eligible claims and how much each consumer can document paying for Chantix.

Who qualifies for the Chantix settlement?

You may be included if you purchased Chantix from retailers in the United States or its territories between Sept. 29, 2015, and Sept. 17, 2021.

Third-party payors that covered qualifying purchases are also included.

How much money could you receive?

Consumer payments will be distributed on a pro rata basis based on the amount each person paid for Chantix and will be capped at 20% of the available settlement fund. No individual consumer can receive more than the amount they paid for the drug.

The final payment amount will not be known until claims are processed.

Additionally, the settlement fund will cover attorneys’ fees, litigation costs, notice and administration expenses and awards to the class representatives.

How do I file a Chantix settlement claim?

Eligible consumers must submit a claim form by Sept. 14, 2026, to receive a payment.

Claims can be submitted online through the official settlement website or by mailing a paper form. Consumers should provide documentation of their purchases when possible, including pharmacy receipts or other records showing how much they paid.

When will Chantix settlement payments be sent?

A final approval hearing is scheduled for Oct. 13, 2026, at 3 p.m. in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Even if the settlement is approved, payments may be delayed while claims are processed or if there are appeals.

Consumers who remain in the settlement but do not file a claim will not receive a payment and will give up their rights to sue Pfizer over the claims covered by the settlement. If you want to keep the option to sue Pfizer separately, you must opt out of the settlement by Sept. 14, 2026.

For more information, visit the official settlement website or contact the settlement administrator at 1-877-354-3912.

Reporter Anthony Thompson can be reached at ajthompson@usatodayco.com or on X @athompsonUSAT