Could Semaglutide Be the Key to Quitting Smoking for Diabetics?

Semaglutide, known for its efficacy in weight loss and reducing heart risk, may also aid smoking cessation in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Recent research indicates that semaglutide could help people quit smoking, adding another potential benefit to this drug’s profile.

The study, published on July 30 in the Annals of Internal Medicine, analyzed semaglutide’s association with tobacco use disorder-related healthcare measures among individuals with both T2D and tobacco use disorder (TUD). Researchers found that smokers with T2D who used semaglutide were less likely to seek medical help for smoking-related issues over the next 12 months compared to those on other anti-diabetes medications.

Medical encounters assessed in the study included diagnoses of TUD, prescriptions for smoking cessation medications, and smoking cessation counseling. Health records from 222,942 smokers with T2D using seven different anti-diabetes drugs were examined, with 5,967 being new users of semaglutide. Differences between semaglutide and other medications were most notable within the first 30 days of prescription.

The findings were consistent regardless of obesity status. Dr. Jimmy Johannes, a specialist in internal, pulmonary, and critical care medicine at MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center, described the results as “interesting” but emphasized the need for further research. He noted that while smoking cessation treatments are currently available, improvements are necessary.

Other studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs, including semaglutide, may reduce cravings for nicotine, alcohol, and other substances. A 2023 study in Scientific Reports found semaglutide and tirzepatide could decrease alcohol consumption among people with obesity, though it was not a randomized controlled trial. Another 2023 study in the Journal of the Endocrine Society reported that smokers on the GLP-1 drug dulaglutide drank less alcohol but did not reduce smoking.

The mechanisms behind GLP-1 drugs’ impact on addiction are not fully understood. Researchers propose that GLP-1 receptors might influence the brain’s reward system, potentially reducing dopamine release and cravings for addictive substances. Additionally, weight loss associated with semaglutide might reduce smoking-related behaviors due to a diminished fear of weight gain upon quitting smoking.

Dr. Johannes stressed the importance of randomized controlled trials to confirm semaglutide’s efficacy and safety for smoking cessation. While the drug has known side effects, including abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, these could deter its use for smoking cessation.

Current smoking cessation treatments include counseling, nicotine patches, gum, and prescription drugs like varenicline and bupropion. Despite these options, many people find it challenging to quit smoking. Dr. Johannes highlighted the need for better treatments to support those struggling with cessation.