Lack of attentional retraining effects in cigarette smokers attempting cessation: A proof of concept double-blind randomised controlled trial

Rachna Begh, Marcus R Munafò, Saul Shiffman, Stuart G Ferguson, Linda Nichols, Mohammed A Mohammed, Roger L Holder, Stephen Sutton, Paul Aveyard

Research output: Contribution to journalArticle (Academic Journal)peer-review

31 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Observational studies have shown that attentional bias for smoking-related cues is associated with increased craving and relapse. Laboratory experiments have shown that manipulating attentional bias may change craving. Interventions to reduce attentional bias could reduce relapse in smokers seeking to quit. We report a clinical trial of attentional retraining in treatment-seeking smokers.

METHODS: This was a double-blind randomised controlled trial that took place in UK smoking cessation clinics. Smokers interested in quitting were randomised to five weekly sessions of attentional retraining (N=60) or placebo training (N=58) using a modified visual probe task from one week prior to quit day. Both groups received 21mg nicotine patches (from quit day onwards) and behavioural support. Primary outcomes included change in attentional bias reaction times four weeks after quit day on the visual probe task and craving measured weekly using the Mood and Physical Symptoms Scale. Secondary outcomes were changes in withdrawal symptoms, time to first lapse and prolonged abstinence.

RESULTS: No attentional bias towards smoking cues was found in the sample at baseline (mean difference=3ms, 95% CI=-2, 9). Post-training bias was not significantly lower in the retraining group compared with the placebo group (mean difference=-9ms, 95% CI=-20, 2). There was no difference between groups in change in craving (p=0.89) and prolonged abstinence at four weeks (risk ratio=1.00, 95% CI=0.70, 1.43).

CONCLUSIONS: Taken with one other trial, there appears to be no effect from clinic-based attentional retraining using the visual probe task. Attentional retraining conducted out of clinic may prove more effective.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: UK Clinical Trials ISRCTN 54375405.

Original languageEnglish
JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 9 Feb 2015

Bibliographical note

Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Research Groups and Themes

  • Brain and Behaviour
  • Tobacco and Alcohol

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  • MRC UoB UNITE Unit - Programme 6

    Munafo, M. R. (Principal Investigator) & Munafo, M. R. (Principal Investigator)

    1/06/1331/03/18

    Project: Research

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