Compliance to nicotine gum recommendations in a multicomponent group smoking cessation program: an exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Addiction Medicine
• Behavioral Psychology
• Public Health

Background:

• Smoking cessation programs often incorporate pharmacotherapy to aid quitting.
• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), such as chewing gum, is a common tool.
• Understanding compliance with NRT in group settings is crucial for program effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore compliance rates with nicotine chewing gum in a group smoking cessation program.
• To identify predictors of compliance with optional nicotine gum use.
• To assess the impact of compliance on self-efficacy and perceived benefits.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory study design was employed.
• Participants (N=36) in a multicomponent group smoking cessation program were offered nicotine chewing gum.
• Compliance, demographic data, smoking variables, and self-efficacy (Smoking Self Efficacy Questionnaire) were assessed.

Main Results:

• Two-thirds (66.7%) of participants complied with the recommendation to use nicotine chewing gum.
• Demographic and smoking variables did not predict compliance.
• Compliant participants showed significantly higher smoking self-efficacy.
• Most compliant participants did not use the gum as instructed.
• Reduced craving was the most frequently reported benefit of gum use.

Conclusions:

• Compliance with nicotine gum in group cessation is feasible, with two-thirds adherence.
• Nicotine gum use in this context was associated with increased self-efficacy.
• Correct usage of nicotine gum remains a challenge, highlighting the need for improved instructions.
• Reduced craving is a key perceived benefit, supporting its role in cessation.