Investigating the use of e-cigarettes and combustible cigarettes among young adults

Dual Use of ENDS and Combustible Cigarettes: Shared, Distinct, and Cross-Conditioned Processes

NA · Brown University · NCT05280535

This study is testing how young adults who use both e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes react to different smoking-related cues to better understand their smoking habits.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 34 Years
SexAll
SponsorBrown University (other)
Locations1 site (Providence, Rhode Island)
Trial IDNCT05280535 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study explores the shared behavioral processes involved in the use of combustible cigarettes and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) among young adult dual users. It aims to assess cue-reactivity, attentional bias, and affect in both controlled laboratory settings and natural environments. The study will enroll 80 participants aged 21 to 34 who regularly use both products, collecting biological indicators and self-report measures to evaluate their smoking behaviors. Participants will undergo two laboratory sessions designed to analyze their responses to various cues related to smoking.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are young adults aged 21 to 34 who regularly use both combustible cigarettes and e-cigarettes.

Not a fit: Patients who intend to quit smoking or vaping within the next 30 days may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of smoking behaviors and inform interventions aimed at reducing dual use of tobacco products.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored smoking behaviors, but this specific dual-use focus in both laboratory and natural settings is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 21 to 34 (inclusive)
* English-speaking at an 8th grade level
* Any self-reported past 7-day use of both ENDS and cigarettes
* Self-identification as a regular ENDS and combustible cigarette user OR use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes on at least 6 of the past 7 days including at least 3 days of using each product;
* Smoking status confirmed via breath CO \>= 6 ppm112 or NicAlert test of urine cotinine (level \>= 3)
* Smartphone ownership.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Intention to quit smoking or vaping during the next 30 days
* Intention to travel during next 30 days
* Current alcohol dependence (based on MINI)
* Urine-screened or past month illicit substance use other than marijuana (amphetamine, cocaine, methamphetamine, opioids, benzodiazepines
* Pregnant (due to toxicity of tobacco products)
* Current psychosis, mania, or suicidal ideation (based on MINI).

Where this trial is running

Providence, Rhode Island

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: Smoking, Cigarette, Electronic Cigarette Use, cigarette, e-cigarette, ENDS, electronic nicotine delivery system, smoking, vaping

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.