Vaping cessation interventions: A narrative review of randomized controlled trials

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Behavioral Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use is increasing, especially among young people.
• There is a critical need for evidence-based interventions to help individuals quit vaping.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on behavioral, pharmacological, and combination interventions for vaping cessation.
• To synthesize current evidence on the effectiveness of these interventions for adolescents and adults.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of published and ongoing RCTs was conducted.
• Searches included PubMed, Google Scholar, and ClinicalTrials.gov from 2004 to April 2025.
• Eleven RCTs involving 8182 participants were analyzed for vaping abstinence outcomes.

Main Results:

• Behavioral interventions, particularly text messaging, showed potential for vaping cessation beyond six months, though results varied.
• Varenicline showed promise but was limited by small sample sizes and short follow-up in available RCTs.
• Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and cytisine did not demonstrate superiority over control groups in the reviewed RCTs.

Conclusions:

• The current evidence base for vaping cessation interventions is limited.
• Larger, high-quality trials with extended follow-up are necessary to establish effective strategies.
• Further research is particularly needed for pharmacological aids and diverse populations.