The use of varenicline to treat nicotine dependence among patients with cancer.
BACKGROUND
Continuing to smoke after a cancer diagnosis can adversely influence the prognosis for patients with cancer. However, remarkably few studies have carefully examined the use of first-line FDA-approved medications for nicotine dependence in patients with cancer. This study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and effect on cessation of varenicline for smoking cessation in patients with cancer.


METHODS
Data from 132 treatment-seeking smokers who received 12 weeks of open-label varenicline and five brief behavioral counseling sessions were used to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and impact on cessation of varenicline. The effects of abstinence on cognitive function and affect were also explored.


RESULTS
Of 459 patients screened, 306 were eligible for the study (66.7%) and 132 entered treatment (43.1%). Retention was 84.1% over 12 weeks. The rate of biochemically verified abstinence at week 12 was 40.2%. Expected side effects were reported (e.g. sleep problems, nausea), but there were no reports of elevated depressed mood, suicidal thoughts, or cardiovascular events. Abstinence was associated with improved cognitive function and reduced negative affect over time (p < 0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
Although many patients with cancer who smoke did not enroll in treatment, the side effect profile of varenicline and its effect on short-term cessation converge with what is seen in the general population. Further, as with the general population, abstinence while taking varenicline may lead to improved cognitive function and reduced negative affect. The present data support the use of varenicline to help patients with cancer to quit smoking.
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D000328:Adult D001552:Benzazepines D016642:Bupropion D003376:Counseling D005240:Feasibility Studies D005260:Female D006801:Humans D008297:Male D008875:Middle Aged D009369:Neoplasms D009538:Nicotine D018722:Nicotinic Agonists D012907:Smoking D016540:Smoking Cessation D014029:Tobacco Use Disorder D016896:Treatment Outcome D000068580:Varenicline
varenicline cancer smoking cessation cognition affect oncology