A new study has found that weight-loss medications containing the active ingredient semaglutide may assist in quitting smoking.
The recent study published in a journal reveals that semaglutide is associated with smoking cessation efforts in individuals needing help to overcome cigarette addiction.
Researchers at the National Institute on Drug Abuse in the U.S. reviewed health data from approximately 223,000 individuals, including those with type 2 diabetes and tobacco addiction, who had used anti-diabetes medications.
Out of the study participants, nearly 6,000 used semaglutide, while others used one of seven other diabetes medications.
Scientists also analyzed electronic health data collected during a 12-month follow-up period.
They assessed whether participants had sought treatment for tobacco addiction, quit smoking within 12 months, or used medications for cessation or counseling.
The study found that semaglutide was associated with a lower risk of needing healthcare for smoking cessation, such as counseling, compared to insulin and seven other anti-diabetes medications.