A randomised placebo-controlled trial of oral hydrocortisone for treating tobacco withdrawal symptoms

作者:Ussher Michael*; Aveyard Paul; Reid Fiona; West Robert; Evans Phil; Clow Angela; Hucklebridge Frank; Fuller Julie; Ibison Judith; Steptoe Andrew
来源:Psychopharmacology, 2011, 216(1): 43-51.
DOI:10.1007/s00213-011-2191-x

摘要

Rationale Many smokers experience a decline in cortisol to sub-normal levels during the first days of smoking cessation. A greater decline in cortisol is associated with more intense cigarette withdrawal symptoms, urge to smoke and relapse to smoking. Findings from an uncontrolled study suggest that glucocorticoids could ameliorate cigarette withdrawal.
Objectives We investigated whether taking oral hydrocortisone would reduce withdrawal symptoms and the desire to smoke on the first day of temporary smoking abstinence compared with placebo.
Methods Using a double-blind within-subject randomised crossover design, 48 smokers took a single dose of 40 mg hydrocortisone, 20 mg hydrocortisone or placebo following overnight smoking abstinence. Abstinence was maintained through the afternoon, and withdrawal symptoms and the desire to smoke were rated across the morning. Salivary cortisol was assessed in the afternoon prior to abstinence ( baseline) and while abstinent after each treatment.
Results There was a significant dose-response relation between dose of hydrocortisone and reduction in depression and anxiety ratings while abstinent, but there were no other statistically significant associations with dose. Overall, the decline in cortisol following smoking cessation ( placebo only) was not significant. Cortisol level on the afternoon of smoking abstinence was not significantly associated with symptom ratings.
Conclusions Supplements of hydrocortisone do not reduce the desire to smoke but may ameliorate withdrawal-related depression and anxiety, although the clinical benefit is slight.

  • 出版日期2011-7