Predictors of Varenicline Adherence among Cancer Patients Treated for Tobacco Dependence and its Association with Smoking Cessation

Abstract

Introduction: The degree to which smokers adhere to pharmacotherapy predicts treatment success. The development of interventions to increase adherence requires identification of predictors of treatment adherence, particularly among specific clinical populations. Methods: Using data from a 12-week open-label phase of a clinical trial of varenicline for tobacco dependence among cancer patients (N = 207), we examined: (1) the relationship between self-reported varenicline adherence and verified smoking cessation and (2) demographic and disease-related variables, and early changes in cognition, affect, withdrawal, the reinforcing effects of smoking, and medication side effects, as correlates of varenicline adherence. Results: At the end of 12 weeks, 35% of the sample had quit smoking and 52% reported taking ≥80% of varenicline. Varenicline adherence was associated with cessation (p