UC HEALTH LINE: Investigators to Test Vaccine to Help Smokers Quit

CINCINNATI—Many smokers want to end their habit but can’t seem to quit despite the availability of prescription and over-the-counter aids to smoking cessation such as pills, gum, patches and lozenges.

Now, a vaccine designed to help people quit smoking and avoid relapses after they quit is being tested at the University of Cincinnati’s (UC) Tri-State Tobacco and Alcohol Research Center (Tri-TARC), which is affiliated with the psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience department at the UC College of Medicine, the Cincinnati Veterans Affairs Medical Center and University of Cincinnati Physicians.

"The idea of using immunotherapy for treating tobacco dependence is an exciting one, and we’re looking forward to Tri-TARC’s participation in this study,” says Robert Anthenelli, MD, Tri-TARC’s director and a professor in the psychiatry and behavioral neuroscience department.

The vaccine, called NicVAX (Nicotine Conjugate Vaccine) is being developed and manufactured by Nabi Biopharmaceuticals of Rockville, Md. This is a Phase III clinical trial, the third phase of testing on human subjects, and will involve about 1,000 people at 25 sites nationwide. Results are anticipated in early 2012.

When nicotine from tobacco enters the bloodstream, it crosses the blood-brain barrier and binds to nicotine receptors in the brain. That triggers the release of "feel-good” compounds such as dopamine that provide the smoker with a positive sensation that eventually leads to addiction.

During the trial, which lasts about a year, NicVAX will be delivered several times via injection. The vaccine is designed to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies that bind to nicotine, creating an antigen/antibody complex that is too large to cross the blood-brain barrier. Thus, the nicotine never reaches the brain receptors.

Because nicotine antibodies circulate for up to 12 months or longer, NicVAX may also be effective in preventing smoking relapse. That’s crucial to smoking-cessation efforts, because relapse in the first six to 12 months after quitting is a significant challenge facing smokers using currently available therapies.

"This study also involves a counseling component to provide support,” Anthenelli adds, "so we’re hoping that any slips—for example, a cigarette during a stressful time—won’t become a full-blown relapse.”

Smokers ages 18-65 interested in participating in the study should call Tri-TARC at (513) 558-7179, or go to its website at www.tritarc.org. Participants are compensated for their time and travel.

Anthenelli reports no financial interest in Nabi Biopharmaceuticals.