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Efficacy and safety of a nicotine mouth spray for smoking cessation; a randomized, multicenter, controlled study in a naturalistic setting.

Background
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has been demonstrated to be an effective pharmacological treatment for smoking cessation, and most types of NRT have been approved as over-the-counter (OTC) medications. In an effort to create a fast-acting, flexible and discreet NRT, a nicotine mouth spray (NMS) has been developed. This study was designed to assess the efficacy and safety of NMS in a naturalistic setting in the United States.


Methods
This was a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group, 26-week study in 1198 smokers motivated to quit. The study was designed to resemble an OTC environment, and thus included limited intervention, limited motivational screening, and no behavioral support. The primary efficacy endpoint was carbon monoxide (CO) verified, self-reported continuous abstinence from smoking from Week 2 until Week 6. The safety of NMS was assessed by measuring vital signs, visual mouth inspection, and collection of subject-reported adverse events (AEs).


Results
The percentage of subjects with CO verified continuous abstinence from Week 2 to Week 6 was statistically significantly greater in the NMS group compared with the placebo group (5.0% vs 2.5%, P=0.021). Statistically significant treatment effects for the NMS were maintained throughout the 26-week period. The study medications were generally well tolerated. The severity of AEs was similar for both treatment groups, and most AEs were of mild or moderate severity.


Conclusions
These study results demonstrate that the NMS is an effective and safe smoking cessation option for smokers motivated to quit, even in a naturalistic setting and without behavioral support.


Implications
This study demonstrated the safety, efficacy, and acceptability of a nicotine mouth spray in an OTC environment with no behavioral counseling or support. It provides an additional option for smokers motivated to quit.