Nicotine levels, withdrawal symptoms, and smoking reduction success in real world use: A comparison of cigarette smokers and dual users of both cigarettes and E-cigarettes

Introduction:
This text discusses a study that compares the use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes among dual users and smoke-only participants under different levels of cigarette availability. The study also examines how nicotine levels, withdrawal symptoms, and smoking reduction success vary between the two groups. The study's findings have important implications for understanding the potential impact of e-cigarettes on smoking behavior and cessation.

Key Points:

* The study involved 74 dual users (cigarettes + e-cigarettes) and 74 smoke-only participants in a 26-day experiment.
* Participants were asked to reduce smoking by 75% and then 100% during the study, while e-cigarette use was allowed in the dual user group.
* Biological samples (carbon monoxide, urinary nicotine and cotinine) and real-time reports of product use, craving, and withdrawal symptoms were collected.
* Dual users did not smoke fewer cigarettes than smoke-only participants during ad lib periods but quadrupled their use of e-cigarettes during smoking reduction periods.
* Dual users were more likely to maintain 100% reduction (97.1% vs. 81.2%).
* Among women, dual use was associated with higher nicotine levels and withdrawal suppression.
* The results suggest that e-cigarettes can help maintain smoking reduction and reduce some withdrawal symptoms, but the impact varies based on gender.

Main Message:
The study provides evidence that e-cigarettes can help dual users reduce smoking and suppress withdrawal symptoms, particularly among women. The findings suggest that e-cigarettes may have a role to play in smoking cessation, but further research is needed to understand their impact on long-term smoking behavior and potential health effects. The study also highlights the importance of considering gender differences in studies of e-cigarette use and nicotine dependence. Overall, the results support the need for ongoing research and regulation of e-cigarettes to ensure their safe and effective use as a potential tool for smoking cessation.

Jorenby, Douglas E., Stevens S. Smith, Michael C. Fiore, and Timothy B. Baker. “Nicotine Levels, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Smoking Reduction Success in Real World Use: A Comparison of Cigarette Smokers and Dual Users of Both Cigarettes and E-Cigarettes.” Drug and Alcohol Dependence 170 (January 2017): 93–101. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2016.10.041.