NCT06372899 · Abramson Cancer Center at Penn Medicine
Noncombustible Nicotine Delivery Systems as Potential Harm Reduction Tools for Persistent Cigarette Smokers
What this study is about
This between-subjects study aims to evaluate whether e-cigarettes (ECIGS) versus taken by mouth nicotine pouches (ONPS) more readily substitute for combustible cigarettes among 200 cigarette smokers. After measuring baseline cigarette smoking rate, participants will be randomly assigned to ECIGS or ONPS and be instructed to switch (versus smoking cigarettes) over a 6-week period.
View original scientific description
This between-subjects study aims to evaluate whether e-cigarettes (ECIGS) versus oral nicotine pouches (ONPS) more readily substitute for combustible cigarettes among 200 cigarette smokers. After measuring baseline cigarette smoking rate, participants will be randomized to ECIGS or ONPS and be instructed to switch (versus smoking cigarettes) over a 6-week period. Relative reductions in biomarkers of exposure will be measured. ECIG- and ONP-associated subjective reward and the reinforcing value of ECIGS and ONPS relative to combustible cigarettes will be assessed as mechanisms.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Able to communicate fluently in English (i.e. speaking, writing, and reading)
- Male and female smokers who are \> 21 years of age and self-report smoking at least 5 cigarettes (menthol and/or non-menthol) per day for at least the last 6 months.
- 5 or more failed quit attempts and the use of smoking cessation medication on at least one prior attempt.
- Have a carbon monoxide (CO) greater than 10 ppm.
- Not using any forms of nicotine regularly other than cigarettes
- Be willing to switch to e-cigarettes or nicotine pouches for 6 weeks.
- Plan to live in the area for the duration of the study.
- Capable of giving written informed consent, which includes compliance with the requirements and restrictions listed in the combined consent and HIPAA form.
Exclusion criteria
- Smoking Behavior
- Regular use of nicotine-containing products other than cigarettes (e.g., chewing tobacco, snuff, snus, cigars, e-cigs, etc.). Regular e-cigarette and nicotine pouch use is defined as greater than 5 days/past 30 days. a. Participants agreeing to abstain from using nicotine-containing products other than cigarettes for the duration of the study will be considered eligible.
- Current enrollment or plans to enroll in a smoking cessation program over the duration of the study.
- Current use of smoking cessation medication
- Provide a CO breath test reading less than 10 ppm at Intake. Alcohol and Drug
- History of substance abuse (other than nicotine dependence) in the past 12 months.
- Current alcohol consumption that exceeds 20 standard drinks/week.
- Current use of recreational drugs (other than nicotine and cannabis)
- Breath alcohol reading (BrAC) greater than .000 at Intake. Medical
- Women, including all individuals assigned as "female" at birth, who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy over the duration of the study period.
- Serious or unstable disease within the past year (e.g. cancer, heart disease). Applicable conditions will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Principal Investigator. Psychiatric 1\. Lifetime history of schizophrenia or psychosis. General Exclusion
- Past, current, anticipated, or pending enrollment in another research program over the study period that could potentially impact subject safety, study data, and/or the study design as determined by the Principal Investigator.
- Any medical condition, illness, disorder, adverse event (AE), or concomitant medication that could compromise participant safety or significantly impact study performance as determined by the Principal Investigator. Subjects may be deemed ineligible for any of the aforementioned reasons at any point throughout the study, as well as during the initial telephone screen.
- Significant non-compliance with protocol and/or study design as determined by the Principal Investigator. Subjects may be deemed ineligible at any point throughout the study.
Where
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations