Endothelial Function and Autonomic Regulation After Short-term Smoking Cessation: Varenicline Versus Placebo
Status:
Terminated
Trial end date:
2010-02-01
Target enrollment:
Participant gender:
Summary
The purpose of this study is to evaluate endothelial function and autonomic regulation (for
example, heart rate and blood pressure) in smokers before and after short-term smoking
cessation. The endothelium is the thin layer of cells that lines the interior surface of
blood vessels. The endothelium releases nitric oxide, which promotes dilation of the blood
vessels and inhibits inflammation. Previous studies have shown that tobacco use is associated
with endothelial dysfunction, and tobacco use increases heart rate and blood pressure.
We hypothesize that 2 weeks of smoking cessation will improve endothelial function. We will
also determine if endothelial function and autonomic regulation after short-term smoking
cessation differs for patients that achieve abstinence with the smoking cessation agent
varenicline compared to placebo.