Study Reveals Ozempic Users with Type 2 Diabetes Engage Less in Smoking Cessation Efforts

A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that type 2 diabetes patients using Novo Nordisk’s Ozempic had fewer smoking-related medical interactions and support than those using other diabetes drugs. Results suggest clinical trials are needed to explore semaglutide's potential in smoking cessation.

A recent study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine has revealed that type 2 diabetes patients who use Novo Nordisk's Ozempic have fewer smoking-related medical interactions and require less assistance in quitting smoking compared to patients on other diabetes medications.

The study analyzed electronic health records from nearly 229,000 patients, including 6,000 Ozempic users. It found that Ozempic users with a diagnosis of tobacco use disorder were up to 32% less likely to discuss their tobacco use with healthcare providers and up to 68% less likely to receive smoking cessation prescriptions.

Researchers have called for clinical trials to evaluate semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic, for smoking cessation. They noted that earlier reports indicated a reduced desire to smoke among semaglutide users, possibly due to a decrease in the brain's nicotine reward effects.

(With inputs from agencies.)