The Effect of Alcohol Cue Exposure on Tobacco-Related Cue Reactivity: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Aims: To examine the effect of alcohol cue exposure on tobacco-related cravings, self-administration and other measures of tobacco-related cue reactivity.

Methods: We searched Medline, PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL and Scopus from inception to May 2020 for articles reporting on a combination of cue reactivity (and/or cross-cue reactivity), alcohol use and tobacco consumption. A semi-quantitative analysis and study quality assessment were performed for the included articles.

Results: A total of 37 articles met our inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review. Most studies (60%) reported that alcohol cue exposure increased tobacco cravings, but only 18% of studies reported that alcohol cue exposure resulted in an increase in ad libitum smoking. There was also substantial heterogeneity between studies due to differences in methodology related to alcohol cue exposure, measures of tobacco cravings, as well as variable participant and study characteristics.

Conclusions: Alcohol cue exposure can increase cravings for tobacco. This has important implications for individuals who use both substances but are trying to quit one or both.