CBD reduced nicotine self-administration and eased withdrawal symptoms in mice

CBD produced a significant decrease in nicotine self-administration across multiple CBD doses and both low and moderate nicotine levels. CBD did not affect food pellet self-administration, indicating the effect was specific to nicotine. CBD also attenuated somatic withdrawal signs and prevented nicotine withdrawal-induced hyperalgesia (increased pain sensitivity).

Male and female mice were trained to self-administer intravenous nicotine at low or moderate doses. CBD was given as pretreatment before drug-taking sessions. Separate experiments tested CBD effects on food self-administration (to rule out motor effects) and on precipitated nicotine withdrawal symptoms.

Existing nicotine cessation medications have limited long-term success rates. CBD showing efficacy against both nicotine intake and withdrawal symptoms in mice suggests it could be explored as a novel cessation aid, targeting multiple aspects of tobacco dependence.

Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death. The finding that CBD reduces nicotine self-administration and eases withdrawal could open a new avenue for cessation treatment, especially given that CBD is already widely available and generally well-tolerated.

Mouse model may not translate to human nicotine addiction, which involves complex psychological and social factors. Intravenous nicotine delivery does not replicate smoking behavior. Optimal CBD dosing and timing for human cessation are unknown.