Summary
Introduction:
This text discusses the results of a randomized controlled trial that compares the effectiveness of e-cigarettes and nicotine-replacement therapy in supporting smoking cessation. The study provides valuable insights for nurses and other healthcare professionals involved in tobacco addiction treatment and prevention.
Key Points:
1. The study involved 886 participants who were randomly assigned to receive either e-cigarettes or nicotine-replacement products for three months, along with weekly behavioral support for at least four weeks.
2. The primary outcome was that the e-cigarette group had a higher abstinence rate (18%) than the nicotine-replacement group (9.9%) at one year.
3. More participants in the e-cigarette group reported mouth or throat irritation (65.3% vs. 51.2%), while nausea was more common in the nicotine-replacement group (37.9% vs. 31.3%).
4. Cough and phlegm incidence declined more in the e-cigarette group, while there were no significant differences in wheezing and shortness of breath between the two groups.
5. Participants in the e-cigarette group rated their devices as more satisfying than nicotine-replacement products.
6. Treatment adherence was similar in both groups, but e-cigarettes were used more frequently and for a longer period.
7. Behavioral therapies, when used with e-cigarettes, can further support smoking cessation and prevent relapses.
Main Message:
The study suggests that e-cigarettes could be more effective than nicotine-replacement therapy in helping people quit smoking. Healthcare professionals, including nurses, should consider this evidence when advising patients on smoking cessation options. However, it is essential to consider the potential risks and side effects associated with e-cigarette use. Integrating behavioral therapies with e-cigarette treatment can further enhance smoking cessation success rates. Ultimately, a personalized approach that considers individual patient preferences, values, and medical history is crucial for promoting effective smoking cessation and long-term abstinence.
Citation
Cadet M. Are E-cigarettes more effective in supporting smoking cessation than nicotine-replacement therapy? Evidence-based nursing. 2020;23(4):120. doi:10.1136/ebnurs-2019-103132
