Internet-Administered Smoking Cessation Treatment for Overweight and Obese Smokers

Internet-Administered Smoking Cessation Treatment for Overweight and Obese Smokers

This project will be a randomized clinical trial testing the efficacy of an internet-administered smoking cessation treatment for overweight and obese smokers. Research on internet-administered behavioral treatments for smoking cessation has found that compared to control treatments (e.g., self-help materials), cessation rates in internet-administered treatments are significantly higher. Research testing the applicability of these treatments to overweight and obese individuals has not yet been conducted. Given that a substantial portion of smokers are also overweight and at elevated cardiovascular risk, there is a need for directed treatment efforts for this group. The current trial proposes to be the first to test the effectiveness of internet-administered smoking cessation treatment for overweight and obese (BMI≥25) smokers. Adult participants will be randomized to receive 12 weeks of internet-administered treatment consisting of either: a) standard smoking cessation treatment with general health education, or b) standard smoking cessation treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for weight concerns. Participants in both conditions will receive open-label treatment with the 21 mg transdermal nicotine patch.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Smoking 10 or more cigarettes per day
• Regular access to the internet
• BMI>=25

Exclusion Criteria:

• Type I diabetes or Type II diabetes requiring medication
• Alcohol or drug dependence within the past year
• Females with current pregnancy or breastfeeding or intention to become pregnant within the next 12 months
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
• Use of an investigational drug within 30 days or current participation in another clinical trial
• Current use of tobacco products other than cigarettes or use of marijuana
• Use of nicotine replacement therapy, clonidine, varenicline, bupropion, or nortriptyline within the month prior to enrollment
• Use of a medication that might affect weight or appetite
• History of allergic reactions to adhesives.