Smoking cessation in individuals who use vaping as compared with traditional nicotine replacement therapies: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Introduction:
This text is a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing electronic nicotine device systems (ENDS) and nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) for smoking cessation. The review aimed to determine the effect of ENDS on cigarette smoking cessation compared to other types of NRT. The text also discusses the harms associated with vaping and the limitations of the study.

Key Points:

* The review included six RCTs that compared ENDS and NRT for smoking cessation.
* Five studies reported on smoking cessation, and there was no significant difference between the groups in verified self-reported continuous abstinence at 6 months.
* Four studies reported on smoking reduction, and there was no significant difference between the groups in the proportion of participants reducing smoking by at least 50%.
* Five studies reported on harms, and none of the included studies reported serious adverse events related to e-cigarettes or NRT.
* Four studies reported on withdrawal symptoms, and there was no significant difference between the groups.
* Four studies reported on acceptance of therapy, and there was no significant difference between the groups.
* The quality of evidence was low for all outcomes.

Main Message:
The review found no significant difference in smoking cessation, harms, smoking reduction, withdrawal symptoms, or acceptance of therapy between ENDS and NRT users. however, the quality of evidence was low, and further research is needed before widespread recommendations can be made regarding the use of ENDS. The study also highlights the need for long-term research to investigate the long-term effects of ENDS and optimal dosing. The text emphasizes the need for caution in promoting ENDS as a smoking cessation tool, given the lack of high-quality evidence and the potential risks associated with vaping.

Pound CM, Zhang JZ, Kodua aT, Sampson M. Smoking cessation in individuals who use vaping as compared with traditional nicotine replacement therapies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ open. 2021;11(2):1. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2020-044222