Investigating how inflammation affects blood vessel health in e-cigarette users

Role of Inflammation in Vascular Phenotype Associated With E-cigarette Use

Early Phase 1 Interventional University of Iowa · NCT06489249

This study is testing how inflammation affects blood vessel health in young adults who use e-cigarettes compared to those who don’t, while also seeing if an anti-inflammatory medication can help improve their vascular function.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 24 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Iowa Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Iowa City, Iowa and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06489249 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the role of inflammation in the vascular health of individuals who use e-cigarettes. It focuses on young adults aged 18 to 24, comparing those with a history of e-cigarette use to those who have never used them. Participants will receive either a placebo or Salsalate, an anti-inflammatory medication, to assess its effects on endothelial function. The study aims to provide insights into the cardiovascular risks associated with e-cigarette use.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are young adults aged 18-24, either current e-cigarette users with at least six months of use or non-users.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of tobacco cigarette use or existing cardiovascular or metabolic diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help clarify the cardiovascular risks of e-cigarette use and inform safer public health policies.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on e-cigarettes, studies on smoking and inflammation have shown significant findings, indicating potential for success in this area.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 - 24 years of age
* no history of e-cigarette use (control) OR current with 6 months or more history of e-cigarette use (chronic use).

Exclusion Criteria:

* tobacco cigarette use (current or history of)
* use of stimulant drugs
* skin diseases
* cardiovascular disease
* diagnosed or suspected hepatic or metabolic disease including diabetes
* statin or other cholesterol-lowering medication
* antihypertensive medication
* current pregnancy or breastfeeding
* blood pressure greater than or equal to 140mmHg systolic and/or greater than or equal to 90mmHg diastolic
* allergy to materials used during the experiment
* known allergies to salsalate or other study drugs

Where this trial is running

Iowa City, Iowa and 1 other locations

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 Electronic Cigarette UseEndothelial DysfunctionInflammation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.