Recent research from the University of California, Riverside, has revealed that skin color could significantly affect the effectiveness of nicotine patches, prompting calls for drug manufacturers to consider this factor in their product development.
In a study published in the journal Human Genomics, researchers noted that melanin, the pigment responsible for skin tone, can interact with medications, including nicotine. The team identified two primary types of melanin, with eumelanin—the type associated with darker skin tones—showing a tendency to bind with various compounds, including nicotine. This binding could potentially lead to higher concentrations of nicotine accumulating in the skin of individuals with darker pigmentation.
The implications of these findings are crucial for understanding nicotine addiction and smoking cessation strategies, particularly concerning nicotine replacement therapies like patches. These patches, typically applied to the arm or chest, are designed to deliver a consistent stream of nicotine to help reduce cravings. However, if eumelanin affects the absorption and distribution of nicotine, it may hinder the ability of those with darker skin tones to successfully quit smoking.
The issue is particularly pressing for Black smokers, who already face numerous challenges, including targeted marketing from tobacco companies and reduced access to cancer treatment. Statistics indicate that only about 5% of Black smokers manage to quit, compared to a national average of 7.6%.
In light of these findings, federal health officials are emphasizing the need for more effective smoking cessation treatments. The Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health are set to meet later this month to discuss strategies for improving quit rates, including exploring new methods that could ease withdrawal symptoms.
Researchers Sophie Zaaijer and Simon Groen from UC Riverside have proposed a cost-effective approach for pharmaceutical companies to investigate the relationship between melanin levels and the efficacy of smoking cessation products. Their hope is that the industry will take these insights into account to better address the needs of diverse populations.
-Bloomberg
