GLP-1 drugs could help overweight cigarette smokers quit tobacco

Research from several organizations shows that popular GLP-1 drugs taken for weight loss may also help people quit tobacco. The American Psychiatric Association notes that weight gain is among the main reasons people shy away from quitting, and researchers at the University of Kansas recommend drugs such as Wegovy or Zepbound to help people quit smoking, but only if they also need to lose weight. “There’s emerging evidence that this medication you’re on will also help you quit smoking,” said Elly Leavens, PhD, an assistant director of population health at KU Medical Center and the study’s lead author. “It’s an exciting opportunity to address leading causes of preventable death and disease.”