Most alcohol-dependent individuals are heavy smokers. The aim of this study is to evaluate whether a specific smoking cessation program (based on cognitive-behavioral therapy) for inpatient alcohol-dependent smokers is more effective than a control condition (treatment as usual).

The study is designed as a randomised, controlled trial conducted in an inpatient alcohol treatment institution. Shortly after alcohol detoxification, smokers are offered to voluntarily participate in a smoking cessation program. Participation is possible if patients either want to stop smoking or to reduce their consumption for at least 50%. Patients are asked about their smoking behaviour at the following time points: at admission (T0), after finishing the smoking cessation program or the control condition (T1), one month later by phone (T2) and six months later in a closing meeting (T3). Urine samples and CO-breath controls are taken to check both nicotine and alcohol abstinence.

Inclusion Criteria:

• alcohol-dependent
• smoker
• intend to stop or reduce smoking for at least 50%

Exclusion Criteria:

• taking part in another smoking cessation program
• being pregnant
• not able to understand instruction due to cognitive impairment

Originally two recruiting centers were planned, what failed. Though less subjects than expected.