Evaluating e-cigarettes versus traditional quit methods for smoking cessation

Non-cigarette Tobacco Products as Harm Reduction Tools in Smokers Who Failed to Quit With Traditional Methods

Not applicable Interventional Medical University of South Carolina · NCT06373679

This study is testing whether e-cigarettes can help smokers quit better than traditional methods like nicotine patches or medication.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment225 (estimated)
Ages21 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMedical University of South Carolina Academic / other
Locations1 site (Charleston, South Carolina)
Trial IDNCT06373679 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

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.

Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant will not benefit from this study.

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 performed: 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.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Charleston, South Carolina

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cigarette SmokingSmoking Behaviors
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.