Gradual vs. Abrupt Cessation Treatment for Smoking
Gradual vs. Abrupt Cessation Treatment for Smoking
This study tests whether stopping smoking by gradually cutting down first is more or less
 successful than stopping abruptly. We hypothesize that stopping by gradually cutting down
 first will produce more abstinence than stopping abruptly.
For cigarette smokers who intend to stop smoking, most treatment guidelines recommend abrupt
 cessation. There is evidence from some small studies that gradually reducing the number of
 cigarettes per day smoked may increase success in quitting. In this study, we will randomize
 smokers who want to quit smoking in the next 30 days to one of three groups: gradual
 reduction, abrupt cessation, and minimal intervention.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  Interested in quitting gradually

 -  At least 18 years old

 -  Daily cigarette smoker

 -  Smoke at least 15 cigarettes per day (CPD)

 -  No change greater than 20% in CPD in the last month

 -  Interested in quitting in next 30 days

 -  Must agree to not use non-cigarette tobacco during study

 -  No use of smoking cessation medication in last month

 -  Have phone with voice mail

 -  Willing to use nicotine lozenge

 -  No other person in household in study

 -  Fluent/literate in English

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

 -  Currently using medication for depression or asthma

 -  Heart disease requiring medication

 -  Heart attack in last month

 -  Irregular heartbeat

 -  High blood pressure not controlled by medication

 -  Stomach ulcers

 -  Diabetes