Smoking Research Study
Researchers at UC San Diego Health are conducting a study on nicotine craving using virtual reality for adults who smoke cigarettes daily.
Fast Facts
Ages 22+ & Smoke Cigarettes Daily
Explores How Nicotine Craving Works in The Body
Compensation
Provided
Conducted in
San Diego, CA
Study Background
This study explores how nicotine craving works in the body and whether a smoking cessation medication can influence those biological responses.
Researchers at UC San Diego Health are using virtual reality to study how cigarette cues affect craving and biological markers in adults who smoke daily. By placing participants in a controlled VR environment, the research team can safely measure real-time reactions to smoking-related triggers. This helps deepen scientific understanding of why cravings occur and how they might be reduced.
The study also looks at the effects of varenicline, an FDA-approved medication for smoking cessation. Participants will take either varenicline or a placebo for 17 days while completing short mobile surveys. Insights from this research may help improve future treatments and support strategies for people looking to reduce nicotine dependence.
Study Background
This study explores how nicotine craving works in the body and whether a smoking cessation medication can influence those biological responses.
Researchers at UC San Diego Health are using virtual reality to study how cigarette cues affect craving and biological markers in adults who smoke daily. By placing participants in a controlled VR environment, the research team can safely measure real-time reactions to smoking-related triggers. This helps deepen scientific understanding of why cravings occur and how they might be reduced.
The study also looks at the effects of varenicline, an FDA-approved medication for smoking cessation. Participants will take either varenicline or a placebo for 17 days while completing short mobile surveys. Insights from this research may help improve future treatments and support strategies for people looking to reduce nicotine dependence.
Additional Information
The study is being conducted to learn more about how nicotine cravings work and to understand whether varenicline changes biological markers of craving during virtual reality experiences.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Smoke cigarettes daily
Ages 22+
Participants will attend four in-person visits at the UC San Diego Courtney lab. You will complete interviews about your health and smoking history, take part in computer-based assessments, and go through a virtual reality session designed to measure craving. You will also take either the study medication or a placebo for 17 days and complete mobile surveys during that time. About 30 days after your final visit, a follow-up phone call will be scheduled.
Participants can receive up to $540 for completing all study activities. Snacks and coffee are available during visits.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.