Using smells to help reduce cigarette cravings
Cognitive and Affective Mechanisms Underlying an Olfactory Approach to Modify Cigarette Craving: A Neurobehavioral Investigation
This study is looking at how nice smells might help people who are trying to quit smoking by reducing their cravings for cigarettes, and it’s for anyone who wants to kick the habit and make quitting a little easier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862545 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how pleasant smells can help reduce cravings for cigarettes, which is a major challenge for smokers trying to quit. By exploring the cognitive and emotional mechanisms behind this effect, the study aims to understand why certain smells may be more effective than others. Participants will be exposed to various olfactory cues while their brain activity is monitored using advanced imaging techniques. The goal is to identify how these smells can help manage cravings and support smoking cessation efforts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adult smokers who experience significant cravings and are motivated to quit smoking.
Not a fit: Patients who do not smoke or who are not interested in quitting smoking may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective method for helping smokers reduce their cravings and ultimately quit smoking.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that olfactory cues can reduce cravings for food, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for cigarette cravings.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sayette, Michael Andrew — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Sayette, Michael Andrew
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.