Using varenicline in combination with electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS)

Area of Science:

• Nicotine addiction research
• Pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation
• Behavioral science

Background:

• Varenicline is effective for smoking cessation but relapse is common.
• Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) may serve as a behavioral substitute for smoking.
• Transferring nicotine dependence to ENDS could deter long-term smoking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate varenicline in conjunction with ENDS.
• To promote switching from cigarettes to ENDS.
• To assess the efficacy of this combination for smoking reduction.

Main Methods:

• Twenty-five cigarette smokers interested in switching participated.
• Participants received ENDS for 13 weeks and varenicline during weeks 2-13.
• Assessments included self-reported use, carbon monoxide levels, reward ratings, and dependence measures.

Main Results:

• Cigarette smoking decreased from 15.6 to 2.8 cigarettes/day.
• 28% of participants achieved confirmed abstinence in the final 4 weeks.
• Cigarette dependence decreased significantly with ENDS and varenicline; ENDS dependence increased.

Conclusions:

• Combining ENDS with varenicline shows potential for reducing cigarette dependence.
• This combination may facilitate switching from cigarettes to ENDS.
• The approach appears tolerable and adherence was high.