Evaluating e-cigarettes versus traditional quit methods for smoking cessation
Official title: Non-cigarette Tobacco Products as Harm Reduction Tools in Smokers Who Failed to Quit With Traditional Methods
Run by Medical University of South Carolina · NCT06373679 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether e-cigarettes can help smokers quit better than traditional methods like nicotine patches or medication.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 225 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 10, 2024 |
| Main results expected | May 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | May 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06373679 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older who have previously attempted to quit smoking using FDA-approved pharmacotherapy and are interested in reducing tobacco-related harm.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study assesses whether non-cigarette tobacco products, specifically e-cigarettes, can aid smokers in quitting compared to traditional methods like nicotine replacement therapy or varenicline (Chantix). Participants will be randomly assigned to either an e-cigarette group, where they can choose brands and flavors, or a medication group, where they can select between nicotine patches, lozenges, or varenicline. The study will last for six months, involving weekly phone calls for the first seven weeks, followed by an 11-week call and a six-month follow-up visit. Participants will also maintain electronic daily diaries during the initial seven weeks to track their progress and experiences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide clearer guidance for smokers on effective cessation methods, potentially leading to higher quit rates.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited data on the effectiveness of e-cigarettes as cessation aids compared to traditional methods, this study aims to fill a critical gap in existing research.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria * Adults 21+ who previously had a quit attempt using FDA-approved pharmacotherapy. * Interest in reducing harms from tobacco use or quitting smoking Exclusion Criteria * Pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to become pregnant. * Household member currently enrolled in the study * Planning to move out of the area within the next 7 months
Where it's running
-
Medical Univeristy of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tracy Smith — smithtra@musc.edu
- Study coordinator: Tracy Smith, PhD
- Email: smithtra@musc.edu
- Phone: (843)-792-5164
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.