We expect that blocking uptake of nicotine by the brain will greatly reduce the addictive effects of nicotine. If similar effects can be achieved in humans, we may be able to use the vaccine to prevent nicotine addiction or to help tobacco users kick their nicotine habits. Just as with other drugs, however, ultimately our best treatment is prevention. If the promise of the basic research on this vaccine extends to effectiveness in humans, it may not only help individuals trying to quit but may also prevent nicotine addiction in at-risk individuals. Detailed findings from this research have been submitted for publication.
Tobacco use is the single-leading preventable cause of death in the United States.
It is estimated that more than 50 million Americans are current smokers and another 6.8 million use smokeless tobacco. In the US, there are approximately 6 million teenagers who reportedly use tobacco regularly and, even more troubling, it is estimated that more than 100,000 adolescents under 13 years of age smoke cigarettes. On a worldwide basis, the statistics are even more staggering as one out of three men and women over age 18 smokes. Nabi currently has several clinical trials underway in these areas and has three marketed pharmaceutical products. This release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties.