Comparing NicoBloc to Nicotine Lozenges

Smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. with approximately 18% of
the population continuing to smoke. However, smoking is concentrated in disadvantaged
populations where the prevalence of smoking may be as high as 70-80 %. Participants will
receive a sampling experience (use of nicotine lozenges or NicoBloc during sessions) with
counseling focused around their experience of using these interventions, including side
effects and smoking cessation expectancies.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. 18 years or older

2. planning to live in the Birmingham Metro area for the next 3 months

3. Smoking at least 5 cigarettes per day for the past year and a Carbon Monoxide>8ppm to
ensure daily smoking. This relatively low cutoff was chosen due to the expectation of
enrolling a large >50% African-American average <10 cigarettes per day compared to
Whites who average ~15 cigarettes per day

4. exclusive use of filtered cigarettes

5. English speaking.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Living in a restricted environment that does not allow smoking (e.g., prison or jail
facility, etc.)

2. Pregnant or nursing (all women of childbearing potential will be required to use an
acceptable form of contraception)

3. Currently enrolled in a smoking cessation treatment program, using nicotine
replacement products, or prescribed bupropion or varenicline

4. Known allergy nicotine lozenge

5. Within one month post-myocardial infarction or untreated severe angina

6. Cognitive impairment or unstable psychiatric condition that interferes with the
informed consent process (individuals stable on psychiatric medications will be
included)

7. Daily or exclusive use of other tobacco products (e.g., electronic cigarettes, little
cigars, etc.).