Dual Use Approach Bias Training for Nicotine Addiction

The study employs a randomized controlled design to follow 90 experienced dual CC/ECIG users motivated to quit nicotine as they engage in a self-guided quit attempt following approach bias retraining. Participants will be randomized to one of three approach bias retraining conditions: (1) CC+ECIG; (2) CC only; or (3) sham (control). Participants will complete a phone pre-screener, baseline (week 1 of study participation), 4 approach bias retraining sessions in laboratory (with quit day scheduled for the 4th session; weeks 2-5 of study participation), and follow-up assessments at 4- and 6-weeks post-intervention (i.e., weeks 9 and 11 of study participation, respectfully). Participants also will complete ecological momentary assessments (EMA) of CC smoking, ECIG use, and CC and ECIG urges/cravings for 14 days post-intervention (i.e., weeks 5-7 of study participation) on Internet capable smartphones. The only time data will be collected is when participants complete EMA assessments or follow up surveys using the REDCap app on the smartphone.

Inclusion criteria

• At least 18 years of age
• At least 15 days of CC use for the previous month
• ECIG use with nicotine at least 15 days for the previous month
• Motivation to quit nicotine (BOTH CC and ECIG; ≥ 5 on a 0-10 scale)
• Ability to speak and read English fluently
• Not have decreased number of cigarettes by more than half in the past month
• Own an android smartphone (for EMA).

Exclusion criteria

• Current psychotherapy or pharmacotherapy for mental illness or addiction
• Current use of nicotine replacement therapy, Zyban, or Chantix
• Limited mental capacity or inability to provide informed consent
• Insufficient command of the English language (>6th grade English literacy level required)