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Abstract
The effects of nicotine abstinence, ad libitum smoking, and 0, 2, and 4 mg nicotine
gum on methadone self-administration were investigated. Five methadone-maintained
patients with a history of smoking (18-30 cigarettes/day) were recruited as subjects.
Upon arrival expired carbon monoxide levels were measured to confirm self-reported
abstinence of 10-12 h. At 30 min prior to the methadone self-administration session,
two response options were concurrently available. When a 64-button press requirement
(FR64) was completed, 10 ml of 0.054 mg/ml methadone solution, or vehicle, was delivered.
Immediately following, and 30, 60, 90, and 120 min after the self-administration session,
expired carbon monoxide levels and typical symptoms of nicotine withdrawal were assessed.
Relative to abstinence, subjects consumed more methadone following the 4-mg nicotine
gum and ad libitum smoking conditions. Ratings of cigarette craving were significantly
less following ad libitum smoking or administration of 4-mg nicotine gum, than following
abstinence. Implications for understanding opioid and nicotine interactions are discussed.