A proof of concept randomised placebo controlled factorial trial to examine the efficacy of St John’s wort for smoking cessation and chromium to prevent weight gain on smoking cessation

Publication year: 2009
Source: Drug and Alcohol Dependence, In Press, Corrected Proof, Available online 27 March 2009
Amanda, Parsons , Jackie, Ingram , Jennie, Inglis , Paul, Aveyard , Elaine, Johnstone , …

 Background: St John’s wort is an effective antidepressant that can reduce tobacco withdrawal symptoms, but it is not known whether it assists cessation. Chromium assists weight loss and might limit post cessation weight gain. Methods: In a factorial design, we randomised smokers stopping smoking to 900mg St John’s wort (SJW) active or placebo and also randomised them to 400μm chromium or placebo daily. Treatment started 2 weeks prior to quit day and continued for 14 weeks. Participants and researchers were blind to treatment allocation. All participants received weekly behavioural support. The primary endpoints were biochemically confirmed prolonged abstinence and mean weight gain in…