Comparison of three nicotine treatments: initial reactions and preferences with guided use.
RATIONALE: Misuse or dislike of nicotine replacement treatments (NRTs) undermines their effectiveness. Brief testing among NRTs could allow tailoring by preference to improve outcome. OBJECTIVE: To test initial reactions/preferences to NRTs in a single session crossover design with guided use. METHODS: Smokers were offered two doses of three NRTs: gum (2 and 4 mg), inhaler, and nasal spray (NNS) in a 5-h test with proper use enforced. Subjects rated each NRT and ranked among NRTs on use variables and preferences. RESULTS: Gum was ranked over inhaler and NNS for "ease of use," "safety" and "prefer in public." Four-milligram gum was rated higher than 2 mg on several variables. With experience, "ease of use" and "liking" improved for gum. Both inhaler and NNS ranked low on considering "use >3 months" vs gum. Dislike of NRT was reflected in refusal of second doses. For those testing all doses (n=9), inhaler ranked last on "relief of withdrawal," "choose under stress," and "choice to help quit." Craving and withdrawal were relieved over time with any NRT use. CONCLUSIONS: Sampling of treatments can identify reactions key to initial compliance with these NRTs.