Effect of an electronic nicotine delivery device (e-Cigarette) on smoking reduction and cessation: a prospective 6-month pilot study

Introduction:
This article is a summary of a prospective 6-month pilot study that examines the effect of an electronic nicotine delivery device (e-Cigarette) on smoking reduction and cessation in regular smokers. The study also assessed the participants' perception and acceptance of the product, as well as any adverse events. The study found that the use of e-Cigarettes substantially decreased cigarette consumption without causing significant side effects in smokers not intending to quit.

Key Points:

* The study was a prospective proof-of-concept study that enrolled 40 regular smokers who were not currently attempting to quit or wishing to quit.
* Participants were given a free e-Cigarette kit and instructed on how to use it. They were also provided with a 4-weeks supply of 7.4 mg nicotine cartridges.
* Participants were permitted to use the study product ad libitum throughout the day and were asked to fill a 4-weeks study diary recording product use, number of any tobacco cigarettes smoked, and adverse events.
* The primary efficacy measure was sustained 50% reduction in the number of cig/day at week-24 from baseline.
* Sustained 50% reduction in the number of cig/day at week-24 was shown in 32.5% of participants, with a median of 25 cig/day decreasing to 6 cig/day.
* Sustained smoking abstinence at week-24 was observed in 22.5% of participants, with 6/9 still using the e-Cigarette by the end of the study.
* Mouth (20.6%), throat (32.4%), and dry cough (32.4%) were common adverse events, but diminished substantially by week-24.
* Overall, 2 to 3 cartridges/day were used throughout the study. Participants' perception and acceptance of the product was good.

Main Message:
The study provides early evidence that e-Cigarettes may be an effective tool to help smokers reduce or quit smoking. The study found that the use of e-Cigarettes substantially decreased cigarette consumption without causing significant side effects in smokers not intending to quit. However, further studies are needed to confirm and expand these preliminary observations. Additionally, regulatory agencies should consider the potential benefits of e-Cigarettes as a harm reduction tool for smokers, while also ensuring their safety and quality.

Polosa, Riccardo, Pasquale Caponnetto, Jaymin B Morjaria, Gabriella Papale, Davide Campagna, and Cristina Russo. “Effect of an Electronic Nicotine Delivery Device (e-Cigarette) on Smoking Reduction and Cessation: A Prospective 6-Month Pilot Study.” BMC Public Health 11, no. 1 (December 2011): 786. https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2458-11-786.