Betel Nut Research may lead to new medicine to help smokers quit

PLOS ONE, an online medical journal, reports, in its 10.21.2016 issue, that researchers are finding that betel nuts, which are often chewed with tobacco, may contain compounds that will help nicotine users quit smoking more easily than current medication. Lead researcher Roger L. Papke, PhD, from the UF College of Medicine, reports that the Betel Nut compound arecoline, may offer the basis for a new, more effective, less troublesome anti-craving medication that the current, popular Chantix. Chantix has side effects that are problematic for many users, including nightmares and suicidal thoughts, so an alternative would be welcome news.

 

Your can see more on this research at https://medicalxpress.com/journals/plos-one/