Combining PTSD treatment with smoking cessation for veterans
CPT-SMART for Treatment of PTSD and Cigarette Smoking
PHASE4 · VA Office of Research and Development · NCT03978442
This study is testing a new way to help veterans with PTSD quit smoking by combining therapy for their PTSD with support to stop smoking.
Quick facts
| Phase | PHASE4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 120 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development (fed) |
| Locations | 1 site (Durham, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT03978442 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to address the high smoking rates among veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by integrating cognitive processing therapy (CPT) with intensive smoking cessation strategies. The approach combines evidence-based PTSD treatment with cognitive-behavioral counseling and contingency management to enhance quit rates among participants. By targeting the unique challenges faced by this population, the study seeks to develop effective interventions that can lead to improved health outcomes for veterans. Participants will receive support and reinforcement to help them quit smoking while addressing their PTSD symptoms.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are veterans aged 18 to 80 who smoke at least ten cigarettes per day and meet the criteria for current PTSD.
Not a fit: Patients who have primary psychotic disorders, current substance use disorders other than tobacco, or contraindications to bupropion may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve smoking cessation rates and overall mental health for veterans with PTSD.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in combining behavioral therapies for smoking cessation with treatments for PTSD, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Is Veteran * Is between the ages of 18 and 80 * Smokes ten or more cigarettes per day for the past year * Has been smoking for at least the past year * Meets criteria for current PTSD * Speaks and writes English * Is willing to attempt smoking cessation and trauma-focused psychotherapy Exclusion Criteria: * Has had myocardial infarction in the past 6 months * Uses other forms of nicotine that he/she is unwilling to stop * Is pregnant * Has a primary psychotic disorder * Has a current substance use disorder other than tobacco use disorder * Has a contraindication to bupropion use with no medical clearance to use it * Is unwilling to use bupropion * Is receiving other behavioral smoking counseling or trauma-focused therapy or plans to do so during the study period * Is currently imprisoned or in psychiatric hospitalization
Where this trial is running
Durham, North Carolina
- Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC — Durham, North Carolina, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Eric A Dedert, PhD — Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Study coordinator: Eric A Dedert, PhD
- Email: Eric.Dedert@va.gov
- Phone: (919) 286-0411
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.
Conditions: Smoking, Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic