Turning Over a New Leaf: Study Offers Hope for Smokers
Are you a smoker struggling to quit the habit? You’re not alone. Many individuals find it challenging to kick the smoking habit for good. However, a groundbreaking double-blind study at UTHealth Houston is offering hope to participants like Miranda Johnson.
Johnson, a 33-year-old student researcher, started smoking in her early 20s as a way to cope with the loss of her father. Despite numerous attempts to quit, nothing seemed to stick. Tired of relying on nicotine to get through the day, Johnson decided to take part in the clinical trials at UTHealth.
The study involves participants receiving either a GLP-1 agonist medication, commonly used to treat diabetes, or a placebo. Dr. Luba Yammine PhD, an associate professor of psychiatry at UTHealth, heads the study and believes that these medications may decrease rewards for substance abuse, including nicotine.
Aside from helping with quitting smoking, there is also a potential benefit in preventing weight gain, a common concern for individuals who quit smoking. Participants receive medication for three months and are then monitored to see if they have successfully quit nicotine for good.
GLP-1 agonists, such as Ozempic and Rybelsus, have shown promising results in treating various addictions. A study published in the journal Nature Communications reported that individuals taking these medications had a significantly decreased likelihood of developing alcoholism or relapsing into alcoholism.
For Johnson, participating in the study has been a turning point. She expresses optimism about the future and is hopeful that things will improve. If you’re interested in joining the study, you can contact 713-500-3784 or text 832-799-8869. Alternatively, you can visit their website by clicking here.