Evaluation of menthol per se on acute perceptions and behavioral choice of cigarettes differing in nicotine content.

Subjective perceptions and self-administration of cigarettes are each influenced by nicotine. Yet, differences specifically due to menthol in perceptions and choice of cigarettes varying in nicotine, and the association between these responses, have not been directly tested. Using a mixed between- and within-subjects design, acute responses to each of two menthol or non-menthol Spectrum research cigarettes, moderate (16-17 mg/g) versus very low (0.4 mg/g) in nicotine contents, were compared following brief abstinence in adult smokers preferring menthol ( n=44) or non-menthol ( n=29) brands. To ensure reliable perceptions, they experienced five exposures to each cigarette, then chose between them. All perceptions and choices were greater for moderate vs very low nicotine, as expected, and the magnitude of difference in four of six perceptions was associated with subsequently greater choice of the moderate nicotine cigarette. Importantly, virtually no differences were found between menthol and non-menthol, as nearly all perceptions, cigarette choices, and the association between perceptions and choice were not moderated by menthol or the interaction of nicotine by menthol. Our results indicate perceptions and reinforcement from cigarettes do not differ due to menthol when nicotine content and smoking topography are carefully controlled. Thus, regardless of menthol, smoking perceptions directly predict self-administration behavior.