Summary
Introduction:
This text is a summary of a study investigating the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) as a potential replacement for tobacco smoking in alcoholics undergoing hospital detoxification. The study aims to determine the feasibility and acceptability of e-cigarettes in this population and compare them to standard nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). The study found that e-cigarettes were well tolerated and elicited positive comments, but were not effective for all participants. Both e-cigarettes and standard NRT were associated with a significant reduction in cigarette consumption.
Key Points:
* The study included two groups of alcohol-dependent patients admitted for detoxification.
* The first group received standard NRT, and the second group was offered e-cigarettes with the option of standard NRT.
* Participants were asked to record their use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and NRT during their hospital stay.
* A blood sample was taken on day 3 or 4 of the hospital stay for nicotine/cotinine analysis in the e-cigarette group.
* Both groups showed a significant reduction in cigarette consumption, with no adverse effects reported.
* E-cigarettes were well tolerated and elicited positive comments, but were not effective for all participants.
* The study suggests that e-cigarettes may provide a useful aid to patient management within a hospital setting for heavily tobacco-dependent smokers.
Main Message:
The study provides evidence for the feasibility and acceptability of e-cigarettes as a potential replacement for tobacco smoking in alcoholics undergoing hospital detoxification. Both e-cigarettes and standard NRT were associated with a significant reduction in cigarette consumption, with no adverse effects reported. The study suggests that e-cigarettes may be a useful aid to patient management in a hospital setting for heavily tobacco-dependent smokers. However, further research is needed to determine the long-term efficacy and safety of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid. Overall, the study highlights the potential benefits of e-cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy in a vulnerable population.
Citation
Truman, Penelope, Moira Gilmour, and Geoffrey Robinson. “Acceptability Ofelectronic Ct•garettes as an Optt•on to Replace Tobacco Smoking for Alcoholics Admitted to Hospital for Detoxification,” no. 1470 (2018).
