NCT06582888 · University of California, San Diego
Advancing VR-based Attentional Bias as a Biomarker for Tobacco Use Disorder
(VR)
What this study is about
The proposed project will include enrollment of 200 daily tobacco cigarette users, ages 22+, from the San Diego community. Participants will be assessed on the VR Nicotine Cue Exposure paradigm then randomly assigned (stratified on age and sex) to receive varenicline (target dose 1mg twice daily) or placebo (n per group=100; total N=200).
View original scientific description
The proposed project will include enrollment of 200 daily tobacco cigarette users, ages 22+, from the San Diego community. Participants will be assessed on the VR Nicotine Cue Exposure paradigm then randomized (stratified on age and sex) to receive varenicline (target dose 1mg twice daily) or placebo (n per group=100; total N=200). Following eight days of titration, participants will be assessed again on the VR Nicotine Cue Exposure paradigm. They will then be followed via mobile assessments for eight days on target dose of varenicline, and 30-days post assessment by phone, to assess short-term nicotine use behaviors.
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
- In order to be eligible to participate in this study, an individual must meet all of the following criteria:
- Provision of signed and dated informed consent form
- Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study
- Persons, aged 22+
- Ability to take oral medication and be willing to adhere to the dosing regimen
- For participants able to become pregnant: use of highly effective contraception during study enrollment
- Current daily tobacco use (use on 7 days per week, on average, ≥5 cigarettes per day, in the previous 3 months)
- Tobacco use history ≥3 years
- Endorsement of past week nicotine craving
Exclusion criteria
- Contraindications/conditions with special precautions for varenicline treatment (i.e., history of serious hypersensitivity or skin reactions to varenicline, history of severe renal impairment, seizures, severe cardiovascular disease, chronic or severe nausea, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, erythema multiforme, pregnancy or nursing)
- Medical or psychiatric history affecting brain development (i.e., history and/or treatment of neurologic disorders, severe head trauma with loss of consciousness \>2 minutes, or current severe Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5th edition (DSM-5) psychiatric disorders other than tobacco use disorders)
- Current suicidal ideation or history of suicide attempt or self-mutilatory acts in the past 12 months
- Other recreational drug use in the past 30 days (besides alcohol and cannabis) verified by oral and urine fluid toxicology
- Visual/vestibular problems that may make task completion difficult (i.e., motion sickness, difficulty balancing, blindness)
- Treatment seeking for tobacco use disorder/intent to quit within 30 days
Where
- San Diego, California
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 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations