Study # 372

What is the purpose of the study?
To measure the effects of nicotine on brain activity while people perform various thinking tasks.

Who can participate in the study?
This study is accepting men and women who:

• Are 18 to 50 years of age
• Smoke cigarettes regularly
• Are in generally good health
• Are not actively engaged in or seeking treatment to stop smoking cigarettes

Healthy volunteers who do not smoke cigarettes are also needed for this study.

What will participants be asked to do?
The study consists of 3 visits.  Participants will:

• Practice and perform computer-based thinking tasks while having an MRI scanner take pictures of their brains
• Provide blood samples and urine samples
• Be administered a nicotine patch if they are smokers
• Complete questionnaires and computer-based thinking tasks
• Abstain from alcohol for 24 hours prior to each study visit
• Not drink more than ½ cup of caffeinated beverage for 12 hours prior to each study visit

Where is the study taking place?
The NIDA Intramural Research Program is located on the Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center campus in East Baltimore.

How much does it cost?
There is no charge for study-related medical care, including study visits and procedures.

Will I receive payment of some kind?
All study participants will be compensated for their time and travel.

How can I find out if I’m eligible to participate?
Call 1-888-OUR-BRAIN (1-888-687-2724) for a confidential screening.