Richard D. Hurt, M.D.

The research of Richard D. Hurt, M.D., focuses on tobacco dependence and improving treatment for smokers. Dr. Hurt's experience in randomized clinical trials has led to pharmacologic interventions that are considered to be at the cutting edge of this field.

Most recently, he has led an international initiative, Global Bridges, to train health care professionals in treating tobacco dependence and advocating for tobacco policy change.

Focus areas

• Combination pharmacotherapy for tobacco dependence
• Treating tobacco dependence in smokers with other addictive disorders
• Pharmaconutrition for preventing weight gain in smokers who stop smoking
• International training for health care professionals

Significance to patient care

Dr. Hurt's work and that of the Nicotine Dependence Center team has significantly impacted the lives of tens of thousands of patients. Innovative treatments developed through the Research Program can be quickly implemented in the Treatment Program, where more than 50,000 patients have now been treated.

These treatments became the standard of care, as Dr. Hurt and his colleagues widely disseminate their knowledge and experience through their Education Program. This has been further extended by Global Bridges, an initiative that will train and mobilize thousands of health care professionals.

Professional highlights

• Founder and Director, Mayo Clinic Nicotine Dependence Center
• First Witness, Minnesota Tobacco Trial, 1998
• Chair, Global Bridges: Healthcare Alliance for Tobacco Dependence Treatment
• Fellow, American Society of Addiction Medicine