Methylphenidate increases choice of cigarettes over money

Introduction: Stimulants increase cigarette smoking in the naturalistic environment and laboratory. The effects of methylphenidate on a 9-trial, discrete cigarette versus money ($0.25) choice task were tested to elucidate the mechanisms underlying stimulant-induced increases in smoking. Methods: Eleven participants who reported smoking 10-20 cigarettes/day completed the study. Four doses of methylphenidate (0, 10, 20, and 40 mg) were administered across 5 experimental sessions, with placebo administered twice. One hour following medication administration and at 30-min intervals thereafter, participants chose between smoking a cigarette and receiving US$0.25. The primary behavioral outcome measure was number of cigarette choices. Results: Methylphenidate increased the number of cigarette choices over money. Puffs per session and carbon monoxide levels increased significantly and caloric intake decreased significantly following methylphenidate administration relative to placebo. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that methylphenidate increases the relative reinforcing efficacy of cigarette smoking. Stimulant use may thus be an important consideration for individuals attempting to quit smoking.