Could an antibiotic ingredient help smokers quit?

NCT ID NCT03713424

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether clavulanic acid, a drug used to boost antibiotics, can help people smoke less. Thirty adult smokers will take either the drug or a placebo for several weeks. Researchers will measure smoking levels and use brain scans to see if the drug changes how the brain responds to smoking-related images.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
clavulanic acid
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a new medication to help people quit smoking by reducing cravings.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-phase trial with only 30 participants. The drug may not reduce smoking more than placebo, and side effects are possible.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for TOBACCO USE DISORDER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Missouri - Columbia

    RECRUITING

    Columbia, Missouri, 65211, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.