Can a pill beat the patch? new study tests varenicline vs nicotine for quitting smoking

NCT ID NCT02271919

Completed Disease control Sponsor: M.D. Anderson Cancer Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This completed phase 4 pilot trial tested whether varenicline (Chantix) works better than nicotine patches and lozenges for helping smokers quit. Over 600 smokers who smoked at least 5 cigarettes daily took part. The study measured how many people stayed smoke-free for 7 days, verified by a breath test. Results could point to a more effective way to quit.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Varenicline (Chantix) and nicotine replacement therapy (patches and lozenges)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could show that varenicline is more effective than nicotine patches and lozenges for quitting smoking, offering a better treatment option.
What could go wrong: This is a pilot study, so results are preliminary and may not apply to all smokers. Side effects from varenicline or nicotine replacement are possible, and quitting success may be low.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

nicotine dependence

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CIGARETTE SMOKER TOBACCO USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

M D Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.