STEPS: Substance Use Trial of E-cigarettes or Pharmacotherapy for Smoking
Evaluating a Tobacco Harm Reduction Strategy Among Clients Enrolled in Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Medical University of South Carolina
240 participants
Oct 17, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
The purpose of this study is to investigate whether non-cigarette tobacco products, namely e-cigarettes (nicotine vapes), can help people who smoke and are in treatment for substance use disorder quit smoking by switching completely to e-cigarettes as compared to FDA-approved medications, namely nicotine replacement therapy in the form of patches and lozenges. Participation will last 6 months and includes 14 weekly study visits and 2 follow-up study visits (in-person, but virtual study visits are possible). Participants will also complete a short daily diary on their phones each day for the first twelve weeks. To qualify, participants (ages 21+) must be enrolled in an outpatient substance use disorder (SUD) treatment program. The study is being done in four regions across South Carolina: Charleston, Pickens/Easley, Conway, and Greenville.
Eligibility
Plain Language Summary
Simplified for easier understanding
This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.
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Interventions
Participants will receive twelve weeks of e-cigarette products with instructions to switch completely at switch date
Participants will receive twelve weeks of FDA approved medication, combination NRT, with instructions to quit smoking cigarettes at quit date
Participants will recieve brief weekly counseling to support their quit or switch attempt from cigarettes.
Locations(4)
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NCT06922617