Combining acupuncture, acupressure, and nicotine therapy to help quit smoking
Combination of Acupuncture, Auricular Acupressure and Nicotine Replacement Therapy for Smoking Cessation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if a mix of acupuncture, acupressure, and nicotine therapy can help people quit smoking better than just using nicotine therapy alone.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 270 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06931054 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 or older who smoke at least 10 cigarettes per day and can read and write in Chinese.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of severe adverse reactions to acupuncture or those currently using other smoking cessation services may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve smoking cessation rates for individuals trying to quit smoking.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results for acupuncture and acupressure in smoking cessation, but this specific combination approach is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Hong Kong
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.