Ann Intern Med

Vaped nicotine is better for cessation than nicotine replacement therapy in socioeconomically disadvantaged smokers

July 17, 2025

Vaporized nicotine products were more effective than nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) for smoking cessation in socioeconomically disadvantaged Australian adults, according to this randomized, open-label trial.

Study details. This two-group open-label trial randomized 1,045 adult daily smokers—who were on government assistance and were willing to quit—to a free 8-week supply of vaporized nicotine or NRT. Both groups received text message support. Outcome assessment was blinded. Primary outcome: 6-month smoking abstinence assessed by carbon monoxide breath testing at 7 months.

Results. 82.9% of participants completed study follow-up. Verified 6-month abstinence rates: 28.4% in the vaporized nicotine group vs. 9.6% in the NRT group, resulting in a >99% posterior probability that vaporized nicotine was superior. Self-reported adverse events were less frequent in the vaping vs. NRT group.

Source:

Courtney RJ, et al. (2025, July 15). Ann Intern Med. Vaporized Nicotine Products for Smoking Cessation Among People Experiencing Social Disadvantage : A Randomized Clinical Trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40658956/