Menthol Ban Impact on Tobacco Smoking
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Menthol cigarette use remains a major public health problem and the FDA has proposed to ban menthol in cigarettes. However, additional evidence is needed to understand whether menthol flavor in e-cigarettes is important for harm reduction among menthol cigarette smokers in the context of a menthol cigarette ban. The primary aim of this project is to understand how the availability of menthol vs tobacco flavor e-cigarettes influences switching and reduces smoking behavior among adults who currently smoke menthol cigarettes to understand the potential effects in the context of a ban of menthol cigarettes.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have a serious psychiatric or medical condition, you may be excluded from participating.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment menthol ban in cigarettes?
Research suggests that banning menthol in cigarettes may help increase quitting rates among menthol smokers, as switching to non-menthol cigarettes could change smoking behavior. However, evidence is limited and mixed, with some studies indicating no significant difference in smoking habits between menthol and non-menthol cigarette users.12345
Is the menthol ban in cigarettes safe for humans?
How does the menthol ban treatment differ from other smoking cessation treatments?
The menthol ban treatment is unique because it targets the removal of menthol flavoring from cigarettes, which is believed to help increase quitting rates among menthol smokers by reducing the appeal of smoking. Unlike other smoking cessation treatments that may involve medications or behavioral therapies, this approach focuses on altering the product itself to discourage use.13101112
Research Team
Krysten Bold, PhD
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults over 21 who are in good health, currently smoke menthol cigarettes, and have used e-cigarettes before. They must be able to read English and provide consent. People seeking smoking cessation treatment or with serious medical/psychiatric conditions or drug use can't participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline
Participants have access to their usual menthol cigarettes
Treatment
Participants receive tobacco products based on their assigned group for 8 weeks
Follow-up
A follow-up survey at week 12 will assess tobacco use outcomes
Treatment Details
Interventions
- menthol ban in cigarettes only
- total menthol ban
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Yale University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Collaborator