Smoking cessation drug shows potential to help young people quit vaping
A recent randomized clinical trial conducted in the United States suggests that varenicline, traditionally used for smoking cessation, may be effective in helping young adults stop using e-cigarettes.
Groundbreaking study targets vaping cessation among youth
Published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Internal Medicine, this research involved 140 participants aged 18 to 24, all daily users of nicotine vaping products. For 12 weeks, participants were randomly assigned to receive either varenicline or a placebo, along with weekly behavioral counseling sessions.
The results were promising: 30,3% of varenicline users stopped vaping at the end of the intervention, compared to only 18,6% in the placebo group. This success was maintained at the 24-week follow-up.
Varenicline, a relevant option for a specific audience
Known for its effectiveness in smoking cessation, varenicline works by reducing withdrawal symptoms and the pleasure associated with nicotine consumption. Its potential to support vaping cessation is therefore logical, although it has been little studied to date.
The researchers note, however, that treatment adherence and continued cessation beyond the treatment period remain significant challenges. Since vaping is often perceived as less harmful than traditional cigarettes, motivation to quit may be lower.
Perspectives and implications for health professionals
These results pave the way for the integration of pharmacological treatments into vaping cessation programs for youth. However, the authors recommend conducting larger studies to confirm the long-term efficacy and assess the safety of varenicline in this specific context.
As e-cigarette use continues to grow among young adults, healthcare professionals may soon have a new tool to combat this form of nicotine addiction.
