Mindfulness Training Plus Oxytocin Effects on Smoking Behavior

Mindfulness Training Plus Oxytocin to Reduce Smoking and Craving Among Smokers in Withdrawal

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of mindfulness training and a drug called oxytocin on smoking.

Mindfulness training allows individuals to be present with their own emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations without reactive judgment, and will be given in the form of daily audio recordings. Oxytocin is a naturally occurring hormone in the brain and throughout the body. It is also an FDA-approved drug to help induce labor in pregnant women. In this study, the use oxytocin is experimental and is in the form of a nasal spray.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Smoke at least 10 cigarettes per day for the past year

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current DSM-5 substance use disorder
• Any medial condition that would increase risk for study participation
• Women who are pregnant or nursing
• Current use of psychiatric medication for anxiety or mood disorders
• Planning to quit or reduce smoking in the next 30 days
• Current regular use of other nicotine-containing products
• Current mindfulness or mediation practice of greater than 5 minutes per day