Comparative Evaluation of the Effect of Pharmacotherapy, Low-Level Laser Therapy, and Behavioral Counseling on Tobacco Cessation: A Parallel Randomized Clinical Trial

Background: Nicotine lozenges help reduce nicotine gradually. They are a discreet NRT alternative. This study compared nicotine dependence, cotinine levels, quit rates, and physical effects before and after one month of NRT lozenges, laser therapy, and counselling. Methods: This randomised controlled trial tested nicotine lozenges, laser therapy, and counselling. This trial included 75 participants (25 per group) over one month. Seventy-five participants were divided into three groups of 25. The "Jus-Check™ Rapid Nicotine Test" was used. Laser therapy targeted both ears weekly for four weeks, with counselling provided weekly. Primary outcomes included nicotine dependence, cotinine levels (saliva/urine), and quit rates; whereas, secondary outcomes included physical effects before and after intervention. Findings: The results showed a significant decrease in nicotine dependence and cotinine (P<0.001) in all groups. However, differences between groups and quit rates were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Nicotine lozenges are as effective as laser therapy and counselling for quitting smokeless tobacco. This approach reduces dependence, lowers cotinine, increases quit rates, and improves physical effects.