Harm Reduction for Smokers With Mental Illness

Launched by DARTMOUTH-HITCHCOCK MEDICAL CENTER · Aug 5, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, titled "Harm Reduction for Smokers With Mental Illness," is studying how e-cigarettes can help smokers who have mental health conditions, like schizophrenia or depression, reduce their tobacco use. The trial will compare the effects of providing e-cigarettes with or without extra support through telehealth, which means participants will receive help over the phone or online. The goal is to see if using e-cigarettes can help these smokers manage stress better and feel more confident in their ability to change their smoking habits.

To be eligible for the trial, participants need to be at least 21 years old, speak English, and smoke at least 10 cigarettes a day. They should also have tried to quit smoking in the past five years but are not currently interested in stopping. Some people may not qualify, such as those who live in nursing homes or have certain medical conditions. If someone joins the study, they can expect to receive e-cigarettes and possibly behavioral support to help them cope with their smoking in a healthier way. Overall, this trial aims to provide insights into how e-cigarettes might help those struggling with both smoking and mental health issues.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Diagnostic Criteria (must have one to be eligible):
• • Schizophrenia
• • Bipolar disorder
• • Major Depressive Disorders
• • Posttraumatic disorder
• • Other anxiety disorders
• Additional Inclusion Criteria:
• • 21 years or older;
• • English-speaking;
• • Daily smoker (at least 10 cigarettes/day);
• • At least one quit attempt in the past 5 years using evidence- based pharmacotherapy or behavioral cessation support;
• • Not currently interested in quitting.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Currently residing in a nursing home;
• • Current diagnosis of Asthma;
• • Cognitive impairment (score \<26 on the Telephone Interview for Cognitive Status (TICS);
• • Current use of e-cigarettes (\>once a week);
• • Psychiatric instability (hospitalized in the past month);
• • Current AND moderate to severe substance use disorder;
• • Pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• • Use of any smoked products other than cigarettes;
• • Current unstable medical illness making e-cigarette unsafe (e.g., recent heart attack, cancer);
• • Participation in SWITCH IT pilot study.