Evaluating Vagal Nerve Stimulation with Nicotine Patches to Help Adults Quit Smoking

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how vagal nerve stimulation VNS combined with nicotine replacement therapy NRT might help adults quit smoking. This study aims to provide early evidence on whether using VNS along with nicotine patches increases smoking abstinence rates over 12 weeks. It involves adult smokers motivated to stop smoking and evaluates a treatment approach for smoking cessation. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group receives a handheld VNS device along with 21 mg nicotine patches and brief behavioral therapy using a self-help manual called Smoke Free and Living It. The VNS device delivers up to 30 electrical stimulations a day on the neck for 2 minutes each. The other group receives the nicotine patches and behavioral therapy without VNS, both for 12 weeks. During the study, participants attend regular visits and use the treatments daily while trying to stop smoking. Researchers assess smoking abstinence at 12 weeks as the main outcome. They monitor adherence to the interventions, smoking status, and any health effects. The total study duration includes the 12-week treatment period with ongoing evaluation of smoking cessation success and safety.

A Study Of Vagal Nerve Stimulation In Conjunction With NRT For Smoking Cessation