Translating Extinction Research to Improve Pharmacotherapy for Tobacco Dependence

All participants will take the following dose of varenicline: 0.5 mg once a day on days 1-3, 0.5 mg twice a day on days 4-7, and 1 mg twice a day through week 16 of the study. Arm descriptions show specific details for each group.

Counseling and support materials (including a review and self-monitoring workbook tentatively titled, Winding Down: A Guide to Quitting Smoking using Varenicline) instructing participants to systematically utilize the FE techniques provided.

The first laboratory assessment will consist of completion of questionnaires and a cue-reactivity test. The second laboratory assessment will be scheduled for the end of the week before the participant's quit date. It will involve completion of questionnaires and another cue reactivity test. A follow-up session conducted by research staff will occur one month after the target quit date to collect information about each participant's current smoking status, smoking rate, varenicline use, and opinion about the treatment. A second follow-up session will be conducted by telephone and will occur three months after the target quit date, at the end of varenicline use. At the end of the study, participants will be asked to complete a brief survey asking basic information, similar to the questions during the screening period.