Preferences among five nicotine treatments based on information versus sampling.
Smokers' minimal exposure to nicotine replacement treatments (NRTs) may account for poor compliance and outcome with these treatments. This study tested effects of information versus sampling of NRTs on smokers' preferences and expectations. The study was a crossover comparing information-only (INF) with sampling (SMP) methods for five NRTs: gum (2 and 4 mg), lozenges (2 and 4 mg), and inhalers. Subjects were given computer-based presentations on NRTs (INF) and rated and ranked use variables (e.g., ease, sensory/ritual, perceived relief, embarrassment) and overall choice for "use to quit." After INF testing, subjects sampled each NRT (SMP) and again rated and ranked drugs. SMP was brief (4 min) to mimic potential use in practice. Results showed changes in perceptions and preferences post-SMP. NRT preferences shifted for overall "use to quit" (59%) and most use variables (43%-63%) post-SMP. Inhalers (generally top choice) showed a 20% drop in choice to quit (p<.04) and a 24% drop in anticipated "relief of withdrawal" (p<.04) post-SMP; 4-mg lozenge ratings increased for "relief of withdrawal" (p<.02). Ratings improved post-SMP for three of the five NRTs ("ease of use," p<.05) but were reduced overall for liking "sensory action" (p<.003) and reduced for all but 2-mg gum for "use to quit" (p<.03). Positive changes were seen in improved ratings of NRTs chosen post-SMP. Given that reactions to NRTs change with experience, sampling should allow for a more realistic choice of NRT (self-tailoring) and better compliance versus current trial-and-error methods.
Schneider
Nina G
NG
Nicotine Dependence Research Unit, Veteran Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA. ngs@ucla.edu
Cortner
Chris
C
Justice
Melanie
M
Gould
Jessica L
JL
Amor
Courtney
C
Hartman
Neil
N
Kleinman
Leonard
L
Olmstead
Richard E
RE
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002638:Chewing Gum; D018592:Cross-Over Studies; D004333:Drug Administration Routes; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009330:Nebulizers and Vaporizers; D009538:Nicotine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012107:Research Design; D012646:Self Administration; D016540:Smoking Cessation / Q000379:methods* / Q000523:psychology; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000517:prevention & control; D013997:Time Factors; D014029:Tobacco Use Disorder / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D002638:Chewing Gum; D009538:Nicotine