NRT Distribution to Heavy and Light Smokers Calling a Quitline

Audience:

Interest in smoking cessation, especially among Quitlines. 

Key Points:

This presentation will provide the results of two experimental studies evaluating different protocols for distributing NRT to heavy and light smokers contacting the New York State Smokers Quitline (NYSSQL).  The first study evaluated interest and effectiveness of offering nicotine gum or lozenges to light smokers (i.e., 1-9 cigs/day).  Light smokers calling the NYSSQL are normally not eligible for NRT.  During a three month period between April and June 2010 light smokers were offered a free two week starter kit of nicotine gum or lozenges.  96.2% accepted the offer of free NRT, with preference for the gum slightly greater than the lozenge (55% vs. 45%).  At 7-months follow-up the quit rates among light smokers were slightly higher for those given NRT compared to those not offered the NRT (33% vs. 27%), although the differences did not reach significance at p<0.05.  The second study involved a randomized study where heavy smokers (scoring >5 on the heaviness of smoking index) were offered two weeks of nicotine patches (mono-therapy) or nicotine patches plus nicotine gum (combo-therapy)  The study compared quit rates at 7 months follow-up.  Overall the findings suggest a slightly higher quit rate among those assigned to the combo-therapy group compared to those receiving mono-therapy (24% vs. 20%), although the differences did not reach significance at p<0.05.  Data on usage patterns and the costs of NRT distribution will be provided. 

Educational Experience:

Useful for devising NRT protocol. 

Benefits:

Improved understanding about use of NRT with smokers calling a Quitline.