Combination of Acupuncture, Auricular Acupressure and Nicotine Replacement Therapy for Smoking Cessation
Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
The aims of this study include: (1) to evaluate whether a combined smoking cessation treatment of acupuncture, auricular acupressure, and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is more effective in improving smoking cessation rates at a 6-month follow-up compared to NRT alone; (2) to assess whether the combined smoking cessation treatment of acupuncture, auricular acupressure, and NRT increases the incidence of side effects compared to NRT alone; (3) to evaluate whether the combined smoking cessation treatment of acupuncture, auricular acupressure, and NRT is more effective in reducing withdrawal symptoms compared to NRT alone. This study will randomly assign participants into three groups. The total sample size is set at 270 participants, with each group consisting of 90 participants. The randomization ratio is 1:1:1.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Individuals aged 18 or older. 2. Individuals who consume at least 10 traditional cigarettes per day. 3. Individuals with access to a smartphone for communication and internet use. 4. Individuals who are able to read and write Chinese. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Previous use of acupuncture for smoking cessation or any other condition. 2. Skin problems related to diabetes. 3. Hyperthyroidism. 4. Hospitalized at Intensive Care Unit in the past 4 weeks. 5. Severe cardiovascular diseases. 6. Pregnancy. 7. Breastfeeding. 8. History of severe adverse reactions to acupuncture. 9. Current use of blood-thinning medication or having a bleeding disorder. 10. Current use of other smoking cessation services.