Combining acupuncture, acupressure, and nicotine therapy to help quit smoking

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of a combined treatment approach for smoking cessation that includes acupuncture, auricular acupressure, and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one receiving the combined treatment, one receiving a sham treatment, and one receiving NRT with standard consultation. The study aims to determine if the combination therapy improves smoking cessation rates, reduces withdrawal symptoms, and increases side effects compared to NRT alone. A total of 270 participants will be enrolled, with each group consisting of 90 individuals.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Individuals aged 18 or older.
2. Individuals who consume at least 10 traditional cigarettes per day.
3. Individuals with access to a smartphone for communication and internet use.
4. Individuals who are able to read and write Chinese.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Previous use of acupuncture for smoking cessation or any other condition.
2. Skin problems related to diabetes.
3. Hyperthyroidism.
4. Hospitalized at Intensive Care Unit in the past 4 weeks.
5. Severe cardiovascular diseases.
6. Pregnancy.
7. Breastfeeding.
8. History of severe adverse reactions to acupuncture.
9. Current use of blood-thinning medication or having a bleeding disorder.
10. Current use of other smoking cessation services.

Where it's running

• School of Nursing, The University of Hong Kong
  Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Derek Cheung, PhD
• Email: derekcheung@hku.hk
• Phone: +852 39176652

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.