Can a diabetes medication help people quit smoking?

This trial is testing whether semaglutide—a medication commonly used to help manage type 2 diabetes—can help people quit smoking. The medication works by reducing cravings and the brain's reward response to nicotine, while also helping prevent weight gain that often happens after people quit. Researchers want to see if combining this medication with nicotine replacement therapy (like patches or gum) works better than nicotine replacement therapy alone.

Smoking and diabetes are major risk factors for heart disease, and people with both conditions face serious health complications. While this medication is well-known for managing blood sugar and weight, early research suggests it may also help reduce nicotine cravings by affecting how the brain responds to smoking. This trial will help determine if this medication could be a new tool to help people quit smoking.