Vaping vs. Nicotine Replacement for Smoking Behavior

Overseen By The Ohio State Comprehensive Cancer Center

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Trial Phase: Academic

Sponsor: Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center

Must not be taking: Smoking cessation medications

Disqualifiers: Lung disease, Heart disease, Pregnancy, others

No Placebo Group All trial participants will receive the active study treatment (no placebo)

Approved in 4 Jurisdictions This treatment is already approved in other countries

Compensation: Varies

Number of Visits: Unknown

Duration: 14 weeks

1500 Participants Needed

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

What is the purpose of this trial?

This trial examines how different tools can aid smoking cessation, focusing on electronic cigarettes (ECs) compared to nicotine patches and lozenges. Researchers aim to determine if the flavor of ECs, such as tobacco or non-tobacco, influences their appeal and effectiveness in reducing smoking cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Participants will be divided into three groups to use preferred flavor ECs, tobacco flavor ECs, or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), which includes options like nicotine gum, lozenges, patches, inhalers, and mouth spray, for 14 weeks. This study suits individuals who smoke at least 5 cigarettes a day, are open to trying either ECs or NRT, and possess a smartphone. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to explore personalized smoking cessation options.

Will I have to stop taking my current medications?

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are currently using smoking cessation medications or nicotine replacement therapy.

Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?

A previous study showed that vaping can help people quit smoking with fewer serious side effects than regular cigarettes. Research indicates that the risk of death or major health problems from vaping is low. However, vaping carries some risks, such as nicotine addiction, lung irritation, and other health issues, though these are usually less severe than those from smoking.

For nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), such as patches and lozenges, safety has been well-proven. The FDA has approved NRT to help people quit smoking, and it is known to be safe for most users.

Both vaping and NRT are considered safer than smoking, but each has its own risks. It's important to consider these when deciding to join a clinical trial. ^{1 2 3 4 5}

Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?

Researchers are excited about this trial because it compares vaping with nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in helping people quit smoking. Unlike traditional methods like nicotine patches and lozenges, vaping in this context might offer a different psychological and behavioral experience that could make quitting easier for some. The trial also includes a unique educational component, where participants engage in discussions, potentially boosting success rates by addressing the social and habitual aspects of smoking. By exploring these different approaches, researchers aim to understand which method is more effective, offering new insights into smoking cessation strategies.

What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for smoking behavior?

This trial will compare the effectiveness of e-cigarettes and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) in helping people quit smoking. Studies have shown that e-cigarettes can help people quit smoking more effectively than nicotine patches or gum, especially when combined with support from a counselor or support group. Research indicates that e-cigarettes, whether flavored like tobacco or not, can help reduce the urge to smoke and ease withdrawal symptoms. They also seem to boost motivation and confidence to quit smoking. While some studies suggest e-cigarettes might not work for everyone, they generally seem to be a helpful tool for many smokers. Overall, e-cigarettes show promise as a way to help people stop smoking, with flavored options possibly making them more appealing and effective. Participants in this trial will receive either e-cigarettes or NRT in different arms to evaluate their effectiveness. ^{1 4 6 7 8}

Who Is on the Research Team?

Theodore L. Wagener, PhD

Principal Investigator

Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

This trial is for current cigarette smokers who are interested in trying electronic cigarettes (ECs) or nicotine replacement therapy to reduce smoking. Specific eligibility criteria details were not provided, so it's unclear who exactly can or cannot participate.

Inclusion Criteria

Smoke >= 5 cigarettes per day for the past year

Have a smartphone

I am 21 years old or older.

Exclusion Criteria

Currently pregnant, planning to become pregnant within 6 months, or breastfeeding

Current use of an EC > 4 days a month

Known allergy to propylene glycol or vegetable glycerin

Timeline for a Trial Participant

Screening

Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial

2-4 weeks

Treatment

Participants receive either PEC, TEC, or NRT for 14 weeks, including a 2-week pre-switch period to become familiar with usage

14 weeks

Regular discussions throughout the trial

Surveillance

Participants in all arms are followed for 12 weeks after completion of study procedures to monitor smoking behavior and product use

12 weeks

Follow-up

Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment

4 weeks

What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?

Interventions

• Nicotine Replacement

Trial Overview The study compares the impact of tobacco-flavored ECs versus non-tobacco flavored ECs and traditional nicotine replacements on smoking habits. It aims to see if different flavors affect the appeal and usage of ECs, as well as their effectiveness in reducing cigarette cravings and dependence.

How Is the Trial Designed?

Group I: Arm II (TEC) Experimental Treatment 2 Interventions

Participants receive TEC for 14 weeks, including a 2-week pre-switch period to become familiar with usage. Participants in all arms participate in discussions throughout the trial.

Group II: Arm I (PEC) Experimental Treatment 2 Interventions

Participants receive PEC for 14 weeks, including a 2-week pre-switch period to become familiar with usage. Participants in all arms participate in discussions throughout the trial.

Group III: Arm III (NRT) Active Control 2 Interventions

Participants receive NRT (nicotine patches and lozenges) for 14 weeks, including a 2-week pre-switch period to become familiar with usage. Participants in all arms participate in discussions throughout the trial.

Nicotine Replacement is already approved in United States, European Union, Canada for the following indications:

Approved in United States as Nicotine Replacement Therapy for:

• Smoking cessation

Approved in European Union as Nicotine Replacement Therapy for:

• Smoking cessation

Approved in Canada as Nicotine Replacement Therapy for:

• Smoking cessation

Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?

Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center

Lead Sponsor

Trials

350

Recruited

295,000+

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Collaborator

Trials

2,658

Recruited

3,409,000+

Published Research Related to This Trial

In a study of 642 smokers, transdermal nicotine showed a trend towards higher quit rates compared to nicotine lozenges, with 24.3% quitting at the end of treatment versus 18.7% for lozenges.

Smokers who preferred transdermal nicotine and did not use nicotine to manage emotional distress had better success rates, suggesting that individual preferences and reasons for smoking can influence treatment outcomes.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Nicotine patch vs. nicotine lozenge for smoking cessation: an effectiveness trial coordinated by the Community Clinical Oncology Program. Schnoll, RA., Martinez, E., Tatum, KL., et al.[2022]

A meta-analysis of 53 randomized controlled trials involving 17,703 subjects found that nicotine-replacement therapy (NRT) significantly increases the odds of smoking abstinence, with an overall odds ratio of 1.71 compared to control groups.

Different forms of NRT showed varying effectiveness, with inhaled nicotine being the most effective (odds ratio of 3.05), while the effectiveness was largely independent of the level of nicotine dependence and the intensity of additional support provided.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Meta-analysis on efficacy of nicotine replacement therapies in smoking cessation. Silagy, C., Mant, D., Fowler, G., et al.[2019]

In a study of 33,690 smokers using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) through the New York State Smokers' Quitline, about 25% reported adverse effects at 2 weeks, which increased to 42% at 3 months, but most effects were mild.

Only a small percentage (4.4%-5.4%) discontinued NRT due to these adverse effects, indicating that NRT is generally safe for users when proper screening is conducted.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Adverse effects with use of nicotine replacement therapy among quitline clients. Ossip, DJ., Abrams, SM., Mahoney, MC., et al.[2015]

In a study involving 34 healthy adult smokers, tobacco-free oral nicotine pouches (NPs) showed similar nicotine absorption to lozenges and significantly better absorption than gum, indicating they may be an effective alternative for nicotine delivery.

Participants reported higher satisfaction with NPs compared to lozenges, and NPs had a lower incidence of minor adverse events, suggesting they are a well-tolerated option for smokers seeking nicotine replacement.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

A randomised study to assess the nicotine pharmacokinetics of an oral nicotine pouch and two nicotine replacement therapy products. Azzopardi, D., Ebajemito, J., McEwan, M., et al.[2022]

In a study of 72 smokers over 12 weeks, nicotine patches were found to be more effective than nicotine gum for smoking cessation, with higher quit rates and better adherence among participants.

Salivary cotinine levels, which were measured to assess nicotine intake, showed a significant reduction in the patch group compared to the gum group, indicating that patches may provide a more reliable method for nicotine replacement therapy.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Comparative evaluation of the efficacy of nicotine chewing gum and nicotine patches as nicotine replacement therapy using salivary cotinine levels as a biochemical validation measure. Sivasankari, T., Sankaran, A., Murugappan, S., et al.[2023]

Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) significantly increase smoking quit rates by 50%-100% compared to placebos, based on evidence from controlled clinical trials.

Despite their effectiveness, less than 20% of smokers attempting to quit use NRT, largely due to issues like inadequate dosage options, perceived high costs, and safety concerns, which limits their impact on overall smoking trends.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Impact of nicotine replacement therapy on smoking behavior. Cummings, KM., Hyland, A.[2022]

In a study of 400 smokers, using a nicotine inhaler combined with a nicotine patch led to significantly higher smoking cessation rates compared to using the inhaler with a placebo patch, with 60.5% abstinence at 6 weeks versus 47.5%.

The combination therapy not only improved cessation rates but also showed a trend toward better lung function and reduced respiratory symptoms in those who quit smoking, indicating its potential benefits for overall respiratory health.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Nicotine inhaler and nicotine patch as a combination therapy for smoking cessation: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Bohadana, A., Nilsson, F., Rasmussen, T., et al.[2019]

Nicotinell lozenges, particularly the 1 mg formulation, have been shown to be bioequivalent to 2 mg nicotine gum, providing effective nicotine delivery for smoking cessation, with significant short-term efficacy demonstrated in over 900 smokers.

The lozenges have an excellent safety profile, with only mild and reversible adverse events reported, making them a safe option for smokers seeking to quit.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy from randomized controlled trials of 1 and 2 mg nicotine bitartrate lozenges (Nicotinell). Dautzenberg, B., Nides, M., Kienzler, JL., et al.[2023]

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has evolved significantly over the past decade, with new delivery methods like mouth sprays, films, and electronic cigarettes showing promise in aiding smoking cessation and harm reduction.

The article reviews the efficacy and tolerability of these novel NRT products, highlighting their advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional NRT forms, which can help inform users about their options for quitting smoking.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Novel delivery systems for nicotine replacement therapy as an aid to smoking cessation and for harm reduction: rationale, and evidence for advantages over existing systems. Shahab, L., Brose, LS., West, R.[2022]

The study found that three prototype 4-mg nicotine lozenges produced in India were bioequivalent to the globally marketed Nicorette® 4-mg lozenge, indicating they can effectively deliver similar levels of nicotine to the bloodstream.

All prototype lozenges were well tolerated and had safety profiles comparable to the reference product, suggesting they are a safe alternative for nicotine replacement therapy.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Pharmacokinetic characterization of three novel 4-mg nicotine lozenges . Sukhija, M., Srivastava, R., Kaushik, A.[2018]

Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is safe and effective, but it is often used incorrectly; providing clear instructions and adequate dosing is crucial for maximizing its benefits.

Combining different forms of NRT, such as using a nicotine patch with gum or lozenges, and starting the patch two weeks before quitting can significantly improve quit rates and help prevent relapse.

NCBI (Pubmed)

pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

Optimising nicotine replacement therapy in clinical practice. Mendelsohn, C.[2018]

Citations

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Electronic cigarette use: comparing smokers, vapers, and ... This study examined vaping behaviour, precursors of vaping, and motivational differences between smokers, dual users and vapers.

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Modeling the Effects of E-Cigarettes on Smoking Behavior Results. If e-cigarettes increase individual-level smoking cessation probabilities by 20%, the model estimates a 6% reduction in smoking prevalence by 2060 ...

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E-cigarettes and smoking cessation in real-world ... Odds of quitting cigarettes were 28% lower in those who used e-cigarettes compared with those who did not use e-cigarettes (odds ratio 0·72, 95% CI 0·57–0·91).

4. sciencedirect.com sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2772628223000213

Designing an intervention to help the quitters quit Our study suggests when e-cigarettes are used for cessation additional support measures may be needed to achieve “smokers should switch to vaping and vapers ...

5. ourworldindata.org ourworldindata.org/vaping-vs-smoking-health-risks

Is vaping less harmful than smoking, and does it help ... However, based on the research, vaping does appear to be an effective tool that helps people quit cigarettes. What motivated me to write this ...

6. tobaccocontrol.bmj.com tobaccocontrol.bmj.com/content/early/2025/02/20/tc-2024-058798

Vaping cessation interventions: a systematic review and ... While long-term risks remain unclear, known dangers include nicotine addiction, E-cigarette or Vaping Use-Associated Lung Injury and potential ...

7. pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10396413/

Electronic cigarettes and health outcomes: epidemiological ... Use of nicotine e-cigarettes increases the risks of addiction, poisoning, toxicity from inhalation (including seizures) and trauma and burns.

8. tobaccopreventioncessation.com tobaccopreventioncessation.com/Patient-provider-communication-quality-Socioeconomic-disparities-in-smoking-outcomes,184050,0,2.html

Socioeconomic disparities in smoking outcomes E-cigarette use and perception of non-harmfulness have increased among youth, with 25% of high school students reporting past 30-day e-cigarette ...