INHALATION OF VAPOR FROM BLACK PEPPER EXTRACT REDUCES SMOKING WITHDRAWAL SYMPTOMS

Previous studies have suggested that sensory cues associated with ciga rette smoking can suppress certain smoking withdrawal symptoms, includ ing craving for cigarettes. In this study we investigated the subjecti ve effects of a cigarette substitute delivering a vapor of black peppe r essential oil. Forty-eight cigarette smokers participated in a 3-h s ession conducted after overnight deprivation from smoking. Subjects we re randomly assigned to one of three conditions: one group of smokers puffed on a device that delivered a vapor from essential oil of black pepper; a second group puffed on the device with a mint/menthol cartri dge, and a third group used a device containing an empty cartridge. Su bjects puffed and inhaled ad libitum from the device throughout the se ssion during which no smoking was allowed. Reported craving for cigare ttes was significantly reduced in the pepper condition relative to eac h of the two control conditions. In addition, negative affect and soma tic symptoms of anxiety were alleviated in the pepper condition relati ve to the unflavored placebo. The intensity of sensations in the chest was also significantly higher for the pepper condition. These results support the view that respiratory tract sensations are important in a lleviating smoking withdrawal symptoms. Cigarette substitutes deliveri ng pepper constituents may prove useful in smoking cessation treatment .