The Effect of Sensorimotor Replacement on Smoking Cessation and Craving

Current treatments for smoking cessation such as nicotine replacement therapy or varenicline address the primary reinforcer of smoking (nicotine), but sensorimotor stimuli (e.g. smell/taste of smoke, inhaling/exhaling, airway sensations, holding the cigarette) may act as secondary reinforcers and also contribute to smoking reward. Addressing both these aspects of smoking may help to enhance smoking cessation treatment. The aim of this review was to examine whether sensorimotor replacement can help to alleviate craving and aid smoking cessation. Three sensorimotor replacement products were examined: non-nicotine inhalators/aerosols, de-nicotinised cigarettes and electronic cigarettes. The current research suggests that sensorimotor replacement may enhance the efficacy of nicotine replacement therapy, but is unlikely to be useful if used alone. Electronic cigarettes may be the most promising approach, due to the combination of nicotine delivery and sensorimotor input.