Examining how nicotine delivery affects dependence and cravings

Nicotine Flux, a Potentially Powerful Tool for Regulating Nicotine Delivery From Electronic Cigarettes: Significance of Nicotine Flux to the Rate of Nicotine Delivery and Subjective Effect

NA · American University of Beirut Medical Center · NCT05430334

This study is testing how different ways of delivering nicotine in e-cigarettes affect cravings and dependence in users.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment130 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAmerican University of Beirut Medical Center (other)
Locations1 site (Beirut)
Trial IDNCT05430334 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of different nicotine delivery rates and forms on subjective experiences related to nicotine dependence among users of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). A total of 130 participants will engage in five sessions where they will use ENDS with varying nicotine flux levels and forms, while their cravings and puffing behaviors are monitored. The study aims to determine how these variables influence nicotine craving and exposure to harmful substances. By analyzing the relationship between nicotine delivery and dependence, the research seeks to inform public health regulations regarding ENDS.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults over 18 who are dual users of ENDS and tobacco, with a history of regular nicotine use.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic diseases, uncontrolled psychiatric conditions, or those intending to quit nicotine use may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective regulations that reduce nicotine dependence among users, particularly youth.

How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into nicotine delivery systems, this specific approach focusing on nicotine flux and form is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Must be healthy and above 18 years of age
* Must be willing to provide informed consent, attend the lab, and abstain from tobacco/nicotine as required (participants will be instructed to abstain from nicotine/tobacco and/or ENDS use for ≥12h)
* A dual ENDS and tobacco user who reports daily use of ENDS (≥ 3 mg/ml nicotine) or cigarettes (any frequency) AND someday use (≥ 3 days/week) of ENDS (≥ 3 mg/ml nicotine) or cigarettes (any frequency) for the past 3 months or longer

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of chronic disease or an uncontrolled psychiatric condition
* History of or active cardiovascular disease, low/high blood pressure, seizures, regular use of a prescription medication (except vitamins/birth control)
* Past month use of cocaine, opioids, benzodiazepines, or methamphetamines
* Individuals who report using marijuana \>15/30 days
* Women will be excluded if they are breast-feeding or pregnant
* Participants intending to quit tobacco/nicotine use in the next 30 days and referred to cessation treatment

Where this trial is running

Beirut

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Nicotine Vaping, Nicotine Dependence, Nicotine Addiction, Nicotine, Nicotine Flux, Vaping, ENDS, Aerosol

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.