Recent findings suggest that GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound not only reduce appetite but may also diminish nicotine cravings. A report from Morgan Stanley, highlighted by Quartz, shares insights from a survey involving 300 users of these GLP-1 medications.
Key Survey Findings:
- Reduction in Tobacco Use: Prior to starting GLP-1 treatment, 40% of the respondents reported smoking cigarettes at least weekly. This percentage dropped to 24% after beginning the treatment. Similarly, weekly e-cigarette usage decreased from 30% to 16% among the survey participants.
- Anecdotal Evidence: Both patients and healthcare providers have noted that GLP-1 drugs help in curbing tobacco addictions, suggesting a broader impact beyond weight loss.
Research and Market Impact:
- Ongoing Research: Although the causal relationship between GLP-1 usage and reduced tobacco cravings has not been definitively established, clinical trials are currently underway to explore this potential benefit more thoroughly.
- Market Growth: The demand for GLP-1 drugs has seen a rapid increase. Morgan Stanley projects that the global market for these drugs could reach $105 billion by 2030, with an estimated adoption by about 31.5 million people in the U.S. alone by 2035.
This emerging data points to a dual benefit of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, offering a promising tool not only for managing weight but potentially aiding in the reduction of tobacco use among adults. Further research will clarify these effects and potentially broaden the applications of these medications.
