Combination of Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and Varenicline to Increase Cessation of Tobacco (CONVICT Study)

Effects of a Combination of Varenicline and Transdermal Nicotine Patch on Post-quitting Urges to Smoke

Varenicline and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) are both effective smoking cessation treatments. Anecdotally smokers who are finding their quit attempt difficult have reported benefiting from adding NRT to varenicline. This proof-of-principle placebo-controlled double-blind study will examine whether combining NRT and varenicline provides better withdrawal and craving relief than varenicline alone. A total of 120 smokers would be randomised to receive varenicline +15mg/16hr patch or varenicline + placebo patch. All participants will receive standard NHS Stop Smoking Service support. The primary outcome would be ratings of craving and withdrawal discomfort 24 hours and one week after the target quit date.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Smokers seeking treatment
• Aged 18 and over
• Consenting to take part in the trial

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• End-stage renal disease
• Unable to fill in questionnaires in English
• Previous allergy to Varenicline
• Previous allergy to Nicotine Patches Previous allergy to varenicline