Randomised trial, 2000
Does a nicotine patch help reduce smoking cravings and premenstrual symptoms?
Yes, a nicotine patch reduced smoking cravings and some premenstrual symptoms including pain and water retention, with the strongest effects during the late luteal phase.
What they did
30 women trying to quit smoking were tested during two 7-day periods: once during the late luteal phase and once during the follicular phase. Each period included 2 days of normal smoking followed by 5 days of smoking abstinence. Women received either an active nicotine patch or a placebo patch. Smoking urges and premenstrual symptoms were measured using standard scales.
What they found
Both nicotine withdrawal symptoms and premenstrual symptoms were more severe in the late luteal phase. The nicotine patch reduced craving and specific premenstrual symptoms (pain and water retention) in both phases, with the strongest effects in the late luteal phase. Women on placebo in the late luteal phase showed the greatest weight gain.
What it means for you
A nicotine patch helps with both smoking withdrawal and some premenstrual symptoms. The stronger effect in the late luteal phase suggests hormonal factors influence nicotine sensitivity. This study focused on smoking cessation rather than treating PMS directly.
30
women
2
menstrual cycle phases tested
5
days of smoking abstinence
About the study
- Original title
- Effects of transdermal nicotine on craving, withdrawal and premenstrual symptomatology in short-term smoking abstinence during different phases of the menstrual cycle
- Authors
- Allen SS, Hatsukami D, Christianson D et al.
- Journal
- Nicotine & tobacco research : official journal of the Society for Research on Nicotine and Tobacco
- Year
- 2000
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- What was tested
- Active nicotine patch or placebo, tested in late luteal and follicular phases during 5-day abstinence
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1080/14622200050147493
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