The primary goal of the proposed research is to test whether varenicline (Chantix) is safe and effective as an over-the-counter (OTC) medication.
Given the recent research on varenicline showing that it is more effective than nicotine patch and bupropion, and with the removal of the box warning, research is needed to assess whether smokers can use varenicline without a prescription and formal behavioral support. To test this, the primary goal of the proposed research is to test whether varenicline is a candidate for switching from prescription (Rx) to OTC, and whether a dose lower than that currently approved is as effective in an OTC environment. To understand the within-person mechanisms explaining how and when OTC varenicline might improve cessation outcomes, the investigators also propose to assess experience with OTC varenicline via (a) ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Primary Objectives: 1. To assess the safety and effectiveness of the current FDA-approved 1 mg b.i.d. varenicline for smoking cessation in comparison with placebo when used in a simulated OTC study condition. 2. To assess the safety and effectiveness of .5mg b.i.d. varenicline in comparison with 1mg b.i.d. varenicline and placebo when used in a simulated OTC study condition.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
313
Varenicline is classified as a selective nicotine receptor partial agonist (SNRPA) that works both to stimulate the nicotine receptor and block smoking reward at the α4β2 nicotinic receptor subtype.
Varenicline is classified as a selective nicotine receptor partial agonist (SNRPA) that works both to stimulate the nicotine receptor and block smoking reward at the α4β2 nicotinic receptor subtype.
Product that looks like active varenicline, but contains no active ingredient
Arizona State University
Phoenix, Arizona, United States
Los Angeles Clinical Trials
Burbank, California, United States
The Number of Participants Who Have Continuous Abstinence as Verified by Breath Carbon Monoxide or Urine Cotinine
Participants will provide self reported smoking status that has been verified by breath carbon monoxide or cotinine - Continuous abstinence
Time frame: Week 12
Breath Carbon Monoxide or Urine Cotinine Verified Abstinence From Smoking Cigarettes - Point Prevalence Abstinence
Participants will provide self reported smoking status that has been verified by breath carbon monoxide or cotinine - point prevalence abstinence
Time frame: Week 12 visit
Breath Carbon Monoxide Verified Abstinence From Smoking Cigarettes
Participants who self report not smoking will be asked to have smoking status verified by breath carbon monoxide
Time frame: Week 26
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.