Investigating how fruit flavors in e-cigarettes help smokers switch from combustible cigarettes

The role of flavor in the substitutability of e-cigarettes for combustible cigarettes among persistent smokers

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11012370

This study is looking at whether fruit-flavored e-cigarettes can help people who smoke regular cigarettes switch to a less harmful option, making it easier for them to quit smoking altogether.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11012370 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores how the availability of fruit-flavored e-cigarettes may help persistent smokers transition away from traditional combustible cigarettes. By examining the appeal and accessibility of these flavored products, the study aims to determine if they can serve as a more effective substitute for smokers who struggle to quit. The approach includes both laboratory and clinical assessments to evaluate the preferences and behaviors of smokers when presented with different e-cigarette flavors. The findings could provide valuable insights into harm reduction strategies for smoking cessation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adult smokers who have been unable to quit smoking and are open to trying e-cigarettes as an alternative.

Not a fit: Patients who have successfully quit smoking or those who do not smoke combustible cigarettes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective smoking cessation strategies that reduce health risks associated with combustible cigarette use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that flavored e-cigarettes may be more appealing to smokers, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.