Vaping Helps Dependent Smokers More Than Nicotine Replacement Therapy

According to a clinical trial conducted by Queen Mary University of London, e-cigarettes are more effective than nicotine replacement therapy in achieving long-term reductions and quitting smoking.

About 80% of smokers receiving intensive treatment continued to smoke after one year. Smokers can benefit from methods that reduce smoking harm without stopping nicotine use and can choose to stop using nicotine later. Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) such as patches, gum, nasal/oral sprays, and inhalers have been approved for this method for over 30 years. They are effective, especially when behavioral support is also provided, but the overall effectiveness is moderate.

In the first study of its kind, researchers recruited 135 smokers who were unable to quit through conventional treatments. They were randomly assigned to receive an 8-week supply of NRT of their choice or an e-cigarette starter kit, along with instructions to purchase more e-liquid of their chosen strength and flavor. The products were accompanied by minimal smoking cessation behavioral support.

The results published in the journal Addiction found significant differences in smoking reduction (including complete cessation) between the e-cigarette group and the NRT group. Six months later, 27% of participants in the e-cigarette group had reduced their smoking by at least half, while this was only 6% in the NRT group. Carbon monoxide readings in participants' breath confirmed significant differences in complete cessation rates—19% of participants in the e-cigarette group quit smoking, compared to 3% in the NRT group.

The results suggest that recommending a refillable e-cigarette, with e-liquid strength and flavor chosen by the patient, is more effective than prescribing NRT. The cost of an e-cigarette starter kit is also much lower than that of NRT.

Dr. Katie Myers Smith, the lead researcher from Queen Mary University of London, stated: "These results have significant clinical implications for smokers who have previously been unable to quit through conventional treatments. E-cigarettes should be recommended to smokers who have struggled to quit using other methods, especially when behavioral support is limited."

Michelle Mitchell, CEO of Cancer Research UK, who funded the study, said: "This research shows that e-cigarettes are a very effective tool for those wanting to quit smoking, including those who have previously tried to quit. Research to date indicates that the harms of e-cigarettes are far less than those of smoking. However, e-cigarettes are not without risks, and we do not yet know their long-term effects, so non-smokers should not use them.

"It is important to completely switch to gain benefits and reduce cancer risk. Discuss with your GP or local free smoking cessation service to find the best options for you."