Effects of D-cycloserine on cue-induced craving and cigarette smoking among concurrent cocaine- and nicotine-dependent volunteers

Rates of cigarette smoking are 3- to 4-fold greater among those with cocaine-dependence, and compared to non-users, cocaine users are at greater risk of incurring smoking-related negative health effects and death. The current study examined D-cycloserine's (0 or 50 mg once weekly) effects on 1) extinction of cue-induced craving for cigarettes, 2) cigarette smoking in conjunction with cognitive–behavioral therapy, and 3) safety and tolerability in cocaine-dependent smokers. This was a double-blind, placebo-controlled, between groups, outpatient study. Participants (N = 29) were concurrent cocaine- and nicotine-dependent volunteers seeking treatment for their cigarette smoking. Study visits were 3 times per week for 4 consecutive weeks. At each visit, participants received cognitive–behavioral therapy for smoking, were exposed to smoking cues. A subset of participants (N = 22) returned for 6-month follow-up visits. While craving decreased, no significant effects of D-cycloserine treatment were observed. Likewise, significant decreases in smoking were observed at study days 6 (p < 0.002) and 12 (p < 0.0001) relative to baseline, although no participants achieved complete abstinence. However, there was no effect of D-cycloserine on cigarette smoking during treatment or at 6-mos follow-up. The treatment was safe and tolerable, with nearly 90% of treatment sessions attended based on an intent-to-treat analysis. While no effects of D-cycloserine on craving or smoking were observed in the current study, the results do suggest that smoking treatment is well accepted and may be effective for cocaine-dependent individuals.