2005. Interest in Recycling Among Relapsed Smokers
Steven S Fu, MD, MSCE

Objectives: The RESET study is a multi-center RCT testing a strategy to stimulate recycling. Participants were randomized to active treatment versus usual care. This analysis reports on active treatment group participants’ interest in recycling and treatment preferences.

Methods: Subjects were identified from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Pharmacy Benefits Management database. Subjects were eligible if they received a prescription for nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or bupropion SR from one of five participating VA Medical Centers in the past year. The intervention included a patient phone call to collect information on smoking status, interest in quitting and treatment preferences. Information from the phone call was communicated to the patient’s health care provider using a computerized progress note.

Results: 951 subjects were randomized to active treatment and called 4-9 months after the original prescription fill date. 599 subjects (63% response rate) were reached and consented for the telephone interview. 357 of 599 participating subjects (60%) had relapsed. Most relapsed smokers were interested in quitting (65% within 30 days, 91% within six months) and wanted pharmacologic treatment (65% NRT, and 48% bupropion SR). Many were willing to participate in behavioral treatment (41% individual counseling and 28% group counseling).

Conclusions: Among relapsed smokers, there was great interest in continuing to try to quit smoking and the majority expressed desire for pharmacologic treatment. There was a preference for individual behavioral counseling.

Impact: Further research is needed to develop and identify best practices to recycle smokers towards treatment and re-engage smokers in the quitting process.