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Clinical trials using ascorbic acid aerosol to aid smoking cessation
E D Levin1, F Behm, E Carnahan
1Department of Psychiatry, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC.
Drug and Alcohol Dependence
|October 1, 1993
Summary
Ascorbic acid aerosol delivered via a cigarette substitute aided smoking cessation and reduced cravings. While initial abstinence rates were higher, long-term effects required further investigation, suggesting potential benefits for quitting smoking.
Area of Science:
- Nicotine Addiction and Smoking Cessation Research
- Respiratory Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Sensory cues from cigarette smoke are crucial for smoking satisfaction.
- Previous research indicates citric acid aerosol can reduce cigarette cravings and aid cessation.
- Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) aerosol was investigated as a novel sensory substitute for smoking cessation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an ascorbic acid aerosol as a smoking substitute in two clinical trials.
- To determine if ascorbic acid aerosol can reduce cigarette cravings and improve smoking reduction and abstinence.
- To investigate the role of tracheobronchial sensations in craving relief using different particle sizes of ascorbic acid.
Main Methods:
- Two clinical trials were conducted using a cigarette-sized device delivering ascorbic acid aerosol (approx. 1 mg/puff, max 300 mg/day).
- Study 1 compared the ascorbic acid device plus counseling versus counseling alone for smoking cessation.
- Study 2 compared fine vs. coarse particle ascorbic acid aerosols to assess the impact of tracheobronchial sensation on craving.
Main Results:
- Study 1 showed significantly higher abstinence rates at 3 weeks for the group using the ascorbic acid device, though differences diminished post-cessation.
- Study 2 found initial smoking reduction with fine particle aerosol, but similar reduction by 5 weeks for both groups.
- Fine particle aerosol use was associated with significantly lower cigarette craving, negative mood, and hunger in abstinent participants.
Conclusions:
- Ascorbic acid aerosol delivered via a cigarette substitute shows promise for reducing smoking and aiding cessation.
- Tracheobronchial sensations, potentially mediated by fine particle aerosols, may play a role in reducing craving and negative mood during smoking cessation.
- Further research is warranted to optimize delivery and assess long-term efficacy of ascorbic acid as a smoking cessation aid.