How hormones affect women's smoking behavior

Contributions of Progestins Independently and Interactively with Contraceptive Estrogen to Nicotine Use

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-10710219

This study is looking at how synthetic hormones in birth control pills might affect women's cravings for nicotine and their ability to quit smoking, with the goal of finding better ways to help women stop smoking for good.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10710219 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of synthetic hormones, specifically progestins and estrogens, in influencing nicotine use and smoking cessation in women. It examines how hormonal fluctuations can impact cravings and relapse rates, particularly focusing on the effects of oral contraceptives that contain these hormones. By studying the neurobiological mechanisms involved, the research aims to understand how these hormones interact with nicotine addiction in females, potentially leading to more effective cessation strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who smoke and are of reproductive age, particularly those using hormonal contraceptives.

Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or are not of reproductive age may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved smoking cessation methods specifically tailored for women, addressing their unique hormonal influences.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing research on smoking cessation, this specific investigation into the effects of synthetic hormones on nicotine use in women is novel and has not been extensively studied.

Where this research is happening

Lexington, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.