Antismoking Product Or Device, I.e., Deterent Patents (Class 131/270)
  • Patent number: 7028693
    Abstract: The invention is a method to reduce the number of cigarettes consumed by a smoker, preferably towards the goal of eventual cessation. The method comprises collecting data that describes a smoker's cigarette consumption, using said data to generate a reduced smoking regimen, and implementing said reduced smoking regimen. By reducing the number of cigarettes consumed and equally distributing their consumption over the smoker's smoking hours, the method helps the smoker to reduce tobacco consumption and break psychological smoking associations. The method implemented for tobacco reduction is flexible enough to accomodate smokers who are not compliant as it continues to reduce scheduled consumption. Likewise, the method may accomodate smokers capable of accelerating their reduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Inventor: Vesta L. Brue
  • Patent number: 7015796
    Abstract: A device for weaning an addiction includes a housing, an indicator, a processor, and an actuator. The processor is configured to deliver a state signal to the indicator under control of an algorithm. The state indicates either an armed state or a wait state. The actuator is supported by the housing and is communicatively coupled to the processor. In response to actuation of the actuator, the algorithm delivers the state signal indicative of the wait state until the timing signal satisfies a threshold value. If actuated after the timing signal satisfies the threshold value, the algorithm delivers the state signal indicative of the armed state and increases the threshold value. A method for weaning an addiction such as a smoking habit includes the steps of providing a device as above, enabling the user to seek permission from the device, and selectively indicating permissions to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Brady Development, Inc.
    Inventor: John B. Snyder
  • Patent number: 6907887
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to tobacco and tobacco products having a reduced amount of nicotine and/or tobacco specific nitrosamines (TSNA). More specifically, several ways to make tobacco plants that have reduced nicotine and TSNA levels have been discovered. Embodiments include tobacco harvested from said tobacco plants, cured tobacco from said tobacco plants, tobacco products made with said cured tobacco and methods of making these compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Vector Tobacco Ltd.
    Inventor: Mark A. Conkling
  • Patent number: 6874507
    Abstract: A system is disclosed which makes it possible for a patient to be delivered gradually reduced amounts of nicotine over time thereby allowing the patient to be gradually weaned off of dependence on nicotine and quit smoking. The system is comprised of a means for aerosolizing a formulation and containers of formulation. The formulation is comprised of nicotine in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Preferably, a plurality of containers are produced wherein the concentration of nicotine in the different containers or different groups of containers is reduced. The patient uses containers with the highest concentration initially and gradually moves towards using containers with lower and lower concentrations of nicotine until the patient's dependence on nicotine is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Aradigm Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen J. Farr
  • Patent number: 6845777
    Abstract: A method and composition to help persons reduce or quit smoking is disclosed, employing raw tobacco leaves, or tobacco fluid extract, or food grade tobacco like flavor and aroma, and Antioxidants, with or without and SAMe and caffeine. All ingredients can be in a micro-powdered or liquid form, for buccal administration. The composition can be in a tablet or capsule that is intended to be slowly sucked and dissolved in the mouth, and that delivers the nicotine, caffeine or SAMe, proved to be effective in alleviating smoking withdrawal symptoms. The composition can also be embedded inside a soft squeezable plastic cigarette for simulated smoking, providing additional periodic doses of nicotine, caffeine and SAMe to satisfy cravings for cigarettes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: Ivo E. Pera
  • Patent number: 6839305
    Abstract: A habit cessation aide includes a timer to determine the interval between starting a habitual act, a display for displaying messages in operative connection to the timer, and a strap for securing to a user's body. A widely held habit is smoking, for which the illustrated embodiment is directed towards. The habit cessation device also includes an alarm, which may be auditory, vibratory, or a combination. As shown, the device is in the form of a wristwatch and also functions as a standard wristwatch and includes features such as calculating and displaying items including at least time, date, and elapsed time. Depending upon the frequency of cigarette smoking, signaled by the push of a specialized button, different messages are displayed, such as encouraging, statistical or informational, to help the user quit the habit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventors: Neil Perlman, Daniel Mapes-Riordan
  • Publication number: 20040261804
    Abstract: This tubular coin-saving device resembles a cigarette. It stands upright to accept coinage from a slot at the top. The coins fall to the bottom and stack up inside the tube. A strategic sight-hole along the “ciggie bank” indicate approximate total value of coins saved. Packaging and design visuals feature the monetary rewards of quitting smoking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Publication date: December 30, 2004
    Inventor: Desmond Mitchell
  • Publication number: 20040194793
    Abstract: A coated chewing gum product for the delivering of nicotine in any form to a subject by a rapid transmucosal uptake in the oral cavity comprising at least one gum core, nicotine in any form and/or a nicotine mimicking agent, at least one coating layer and optionally at least one or more other additive, wherein said at last one coating layer is buffered. Also contemplated is a method for the delivering of nicotine in any form, a method for the reduction of the urge to smoke or use tobacco as well as a method for producing said coated chewing gum and the use of the same form obtaining a quick transmucosal uptake of the nicotine in the oral cavity of a subject.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Katarina E.A. Lindell, Nils-Olof Lindberg, Roland Olsson
  • Patent number: 6799576
    Abstract: A system is disclosed which makes it possible for a patient to be delivered gradually reduced amounts of nicotine over time thereby allowing the patient to be gradually weaned off of dependence on nicotine and quit smoking. The system is comprised of a means for aerosolizing a formulation and containers of formulation. The formulation is comprised of nicotine in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Preferably, a plurality of containers are produced wherein the concentration of nicotine in the different containers or different groups of containers is reduced. The patient uses containers with the highest concentration initially and gradually moves towards using containers with lower and lower concentrations of nicotine until the patient's dependence on nicotine is eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Aradigm Corporation
    Inventor: Stephen J. Farr
  • Publication number: 20040182403
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a container comprising nicotine to be inhaled, which is able to retain and release nicotine, and which comprises a shaped mass of fibers and/or filaments. Further, the present invention relates to the use of said container in an inhaling device for obtaining a quick and/or complete reduction of the urge to smoke or use of tobacco and/or for providing a sense of smoking satisfaction without smoking and to the use of said container in smoking cessation therapy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventors: Sven-Borje Andersson, Bengt Ake Bosson, James Edward Turner, James Peyton Wingo
  • Publication number: 20040173224
    Abstract: Salts formed from nicotine and anion-forming sweeteners, for example acesulfame or acesulfame-K, in a molar ratio of 1:1 or 1:2, in which case the sweetener molecules can be identical or different, are distinguished by a pleasant sweet taste which masks the nicotine taste even after a long residence time in the mouth, and are therefore suitable for producing preparations, in particular chewing gum, chewing tablets or compressed compositions, which can be used for oral administration of nicotine, for example in withdrawal from smoking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventors: Andreas Burgard, Margit Dorr
  • Publication number: 20040159326
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aerosol spray device (10, 20, 30, 40) for administration of a substance, specifically a substance having a disagreeable taste, such as nicotine, to the oral cavity of a subject; to an actuator (16, 26, 36, 46) included in said spray device and to methods for delivering the substance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2003
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Inventors: Karl-Olov Fagerstrom, Henri Hansson
  • Patent number: 6776169
    Abstract: This invention provides a kind of cigarette substitute which is called Ginkgo Biloba L. leaves cigarette. It not only has the function of refreshing, but also is good to people's health. It avoids the harm which is brought to human bodies by the poisonous substances in tobacco. Because Ginkgo biloba L. leaves contain a large amount of flavenoids and Ginkgolide which are good to human bodies, and these pharmaceutical active ingredients are easy to volatilize and can be absorbed into lung, then good effects will be done. The smoke of this kind of cigarette is soft and dense, and it can prevent and cure hypertension, heart disease, arteriosclerosis and senile dementia disease. This kind of cigarette can be produced by ordinary technology.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventors: Yong Zou, Qiang Zou
  • Patent number: 6769436
    Abstract: An inhaler for dispensing volatile ingredients including a one piece tube pinch closed and sealed at the ends. The tube may include reservoirs formed therein and noncircular cross sections. A volatile or volatiles such as nicotine and/or flavoring and/or medication are loaded in the tube with or without other ingredients and the ends closed. Absorbent material may be used to retain more volatiles within the tube or better wick the volatile vapors when air is drawn through the tube. A cutter including a body, a blade slidable in a longitudinal path within the body and a slot access receiving the pinch closed and sealed ends of the tube allow the ends of the tube to be cut off. Drawing air through the tube transfers vapors of the volatile or volatile including other ingredients from the interior of the tube to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Inventor: Richard C. Horian
  • Patent number: 6766804
    Abstract: A method of safely using cigarettes, utilizing the steps of obtaining a plurality of cigarettes and a safety container, placing a maximum number of the cigarettes to safely smoke per day into the safety container, distributing a maximum number of cigarettes to safely smoke per day and smoking only up to the maximum number of cigarettes to safely smoke during the day. The safety container provides instructions on how to estimate a maximum safe number of cigarettes to smoke based on the amount of nicotine in the cigarettes, the size of the cigarettes and the quality of filter used with the cigarettes. There is also a second embodiment of the method, which involves providing cigarettes that already come in a safety container with safety instructions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Inventor: Kenan Porobic
  • Patent number: 6761176
    Abstract: The tobacco substitute composition according to the present invention is comprised of 80-90 weight percent of eucommia ulmoides, 1-10 weight percent of glycyrrhiza glabra, and 1-10 weight percent of periila frutescens. In the present invention, a flavoring material which is generally added to the composition of a tobacco such as a sodium chloride, glycerol, sweetener, spices, etc. may be added.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Inventor: Gi Yong Yoo
  • Patent number: 6748956
    Abstract: This invention is directed to a cigarette filter containing an extract of Vernonia Cinerea (L.) Less. According to this invention, novel cigarette filter and cigarette are provided which are capable of effectively providing a desired effect in facilitating smokers' suppressing smoking or giving up smoking such as to satisfy smokers' desire to smoke and smoking habit without changing the cigarette's own flavor thereby allowing the smokers to reduce the number of cigarettes smoked easily while permitting them to keep on smoking without interruption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Inventor: Hiromichi Yamashita
  • Publication number: 20040107971
    Abstract: A gum based chewing product, particularly a chewing/bubble gum, contains a synthetic or natural betel nut source, an alkaloid-like composition such as nicotine or other such alkaloids like caffeine, theine etc. from natural or synthetic origin for its source. The product preferably has taste enhancers like lime and/or catechu. A process for preparing the gum based chewing product. The product has improved high smoothness, less saliva generation, excellent overall taste and chewing properties. The gum pieces deliver 1 to 12.6 mg of nicotine per piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Publication date: June 10, 2004
    Inventor: Abhijit De
  • Patent number: 6712075
    Abstract: What I believe is a totally new way to help the people addicted to smoking cigarettes to quit the habit by spacing the time between smokes and preventing the unconscious reach for one by means of a case or container for the cigarettes with a timing mechanism that will not open the container until a pre-determined time is reached. That timing mechanism can be reset from a few minutes to several hours therefore gradually reducing the absorption of nicotine until the craving for it is negligible and quitting the habit is easy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Modesto J. Garcia
  • Publication number: 20040050397
    Abstract: What I believe is a totally new way to help the people addicted to smoking cigarettes to quit the habit by spacing the time between smokes and preventing the unconscious reach for one by means of a case or container for the cigarettes with a timing mechanism that will not open the container until a pre-determined time is reached. That timing mechanism can be reset from a few minutes to several hours therefore gradually reducing the absorption of nicotine until the craving for it is negligible and quitting the habit is easy.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: March 18, 2004
    Inventor: Modesto J. Garcia
  • Publication number: 20040031498
    Abstract: The invention is a method to reduce the number of cigarettes consumed by a smoker, preferably towards the goal of eventual cessation. The method comprises collecting data that describes a smoker's cigarette consumption, using said data to generate a reduced smoking regimen, and implementing said reduced smoking regimen. By reducing the number of cigarettes consumed and equally distributing their consumption over the smoker's smoking hours, the method helps the smoker to reduce tobacco consumption and break psychological smoking associations. The method implemented for tobacco reduction is flexible enough to accomodate smokers who are not compliant as it continues to reduce scheduled consumption. Likewise, the method may accomodate smokers capable of accelerating their reduction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventor: Vesta L. Brue
  • Publication number: 20040031497
    Abstract: A portable smoking topography apparatus for providing smoking topographical information, comprises a smoking material holder adapted to receive a smoking material; a smoking material detection sensor mounted on the smoking material holder and detecting presence or absence of a smoking material; a puff sensor detecting a puff of the smoking material by a subject; a clock; a computing unit coupled to smoking material sensor and the puff sensor, wherein the computing unit reads start time and end time of each puff from clock, reads sample flow rates of smoke from the smoking material during each puff, reads time of insertion of smoking material and time of removal of smoking material from clock as detected by smoking material detection sensor, calculates puff information. The computing unit calculates smoking material information. The portable smoking topography apparatus transfers at least one of puff information and smoking material information to a workstation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Publication date: February 19, 2004
    Inventors: Mark A. Likness, Robert M. Wessel
  • Publication number: 20040016437
    Abstract: This invention features a method for delivering information over a network, the method including: a) monitoring an action of a user on the network to obtain observed user data relating to a desired behavior modification; b) obtaining user supplied data relating to the desired behavior modification; c) evaluating the observed user data and the user supplied data to generate tailored information for progressing a user towards the desired behavior modification; d) presenting the tailored information to the user over the network; and e) repeating steps a), b), c) and d) until the desired behavior modification is achieved. The user is continually provided with re-tailored information resulting from an iterative process of obtaining and evaluating data that progresses the user towards a desired behavior modification. The desired behavior modification can be, for example, the cessation of smoking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Publication date: January 29, 2004
    Inventors: Nathan Knight Cobb, Michael Buhkin, Christian T. Cartter, Amanda Louise Graham, David L. Rosenbloom
  • Publication number: 20030230314
    Abstract: A method of safely using cigarettes, utilizing the steps of obtaining a plurality of cigarettes and a safety container, placing a maximum number of the cigarettes to safely smoke per day into the safety container, distributing a maximum number of cigarettes to safely smoke per day and smoking only up to the maximum number of cigarettes to safely smoke during the day. The safety container provides instructions on how to estimate a maximum safe number of cigarettes to smoke based on the amount of nicotine in the cigarettes, the size of the cigarettes and the quality of filter used with the cigarettes. There is also a second embodiment of the method, which involves providing cigarettes that already come in a safety container with safety instructions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Publication date: December 18, 2003
    Inventor: Kenan Porobic
  • Publication number: 20030159702
    Abstract: This invention relates to a liquid pharmaceutical formulation for delivering nicotine to a subject. This invention also relates to a method and a system for delivering nicotine as well as manufacturing and use of said liquid pharmaceutical formulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventors: Katarina E.A. Lindell, Bengt A. Bosson, Gunnar A. Bergengren, Anette K. Schluter
  • Patent number: 6606998
    Abstract: A simulated cigarette with a cylindrical plastic chamber that has a cap on one side and a semi-flattened mouthpiece on the othe. The cap has an open-air inlet in the center of it and the mouthpiece has an open-air outlet at its end. The invention only has two parts comprising it, the cap and the chamber. When the user covers the mouthpiece part of the chamber with his/her mouth and inhales through the mouth a suction will be produced inside the chamber and air will be pulled in, through the open-air inlet (the cap), into the chamber and out through the open-air outlet inside the mouth. Fragrance will be added to the air that goes through the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Ely Gold
  • Patent number: 6606997
    Abstract: A habit cessation apparatus which can be used in a method for diminution or cessation of smoking or other habits is provided which collects data on a given users habits passively and provides a scheduled diminution program implemented by communication means such as displays, lights and/or audible cues.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Inventor: Vesta L. Brue
  • Publication number: 20030111088
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an oral medication delivery device and a method of using the device to reduce the incidence of tobacco smoking and/or treat a second dependency in a person. The device comprises a tubular chamber having a first end suitable for taking in liquid or gas from an external source and a second end suitable for the application of oral suction. The chamber contains nicotine, another drug, and a retainer for preventing release of the drugs from the first end of the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2002
    Publication date: June 19, 2003
    Applicant: Addiction Therapies, Inc.
    Inventor: Barbara S. Fox
  • Publication number: 20030029465
    Abstract: An Artificial Cigar Device designed and configured to have the appearance and feel of an actual cigar, but actually is artificial, contains no chemicals, and acts as a pacifier for individuals wishing to quit smoking. The Artificial Cigar Device is structured and configured to depict an actual cigar and is fabricated from a soft, chewable, washable and durable material such as medical grade liquid silicone rubber comprised of an approximate range of forty-sixty durometer with a pleasant scent. Said scent ingredients such as vanilla or the like of said non-toxic semi-rigid polymeric material for the artificial cigar shaft member are also absorbed into said absorbent material. The Artificial Cigar Device is also comprised of a cylindrical band affixed around the front end of said shaft member thereby simulating the appearance of an actual cigar wrap. In addition, each Artificial Cigar Device will be packaged in it's own reusable container for storage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Publication date: February 13, 2003
    Inventors: Leonard Eugene Strickland, Linda H. Strickland
  • Publication number: 20020179101
    Abstract: A cigarette substitute device for reducing a user's smoking habit has a tubular body of material adapted to simulate a cigarette; with the device at the mouth of user a predetermined taste or fragrance, or both, is provided by suction of the device. Handling and manipulation of the device and a taste or fragrance provide psychological and physiological satisfaction to aid in reducing smoking by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Elaine Chavez
  • Publication number: 20020179102
    Abstract: A system is disclosed which makes it possible for a patient to be delivered gradually reduced amounts of nicotine over time thereby allowing the patient to be gradually weaned off of dependence on nicotine and quit smoking. The system is comprised of a means for aerosolizing a formulation and containers of formulation. The formulation is comprised of nicotine in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Preferably, a plurality of containers are produced wherein the concentration of nicotine in the different containers or different groups of containers is reduced. The patient uses containers with the highest concentration initially and gradually moves towards using containers with lower and lower concentrations of nicotine until the patient's dependence on nicotine is eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen J. Farr
  • Publication number: 20020170566
    Abstract: A system is disclosed which makes it possible for a patient to be delivered gradually reduced amounts of nicotine over time thereby allowing the patient to be gradually weaned off of dependence on nicotine and quit smoking. The system is comprised of a means for aerosolizing a formulation and containers of formulation. The formulation is comprised of nicotine in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. Preferably, a plurality of containers are produced wherein the concentration of nicotine in the different containers or different groups of containers is reduced. The patient uses containers with the highest concentration initially and gradually moves towards using containers with lower and lower concentrations of nicotine until the patient's dependence on nicotine is eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventor: Stephen J. Farr
  • Publication number: 20020088470
    Abstract: The present invention provides a composition which is useful for reducing tobacco consumption in humans while providing fresh breath comprising Plantago major and an additive for diminishing the odor of tobacco. The additives may be any breath freshener, masking agents, antiseptic agents and neutralizing agents. The present invention also provides a method for reducing the consumption of tobacco while providing fresh breath through the oral administration of a composition comprising Plantago major and an additive for diminishing the odor of tobacco.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: William Chadwick
  • Publication number: 20020078969
    Abstract: The nicotine addiction associated with smoking can be reduced by a combination of nutrition augmentation, craving reduction, and therapy. The craving reduction is accomplished by administration of corticotrophins and mild relaxants, for example, tryptophan and GABA precursors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2000
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: David Wastchak, Alcinda Miller
  • Publication number: 20020059939
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an oral nicotine delivery device and a method of using the device to reduce the incidence of tobacco smoking in a person. The device comprises a tubular chamber having a first end suitable for taking in liquid or gas from an external source and a second end suitable for the application of oral suction. The chamber contains nicotine and a retainer for preventing release of the nicotine from the first end of the chamber. The device delivers nicotine in non-irritating solution form.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2001
    Publication date: May 23, 2002
    Applicant: Addiction Therapies, Inc.
    Inventor: Barbara S. Fox
  • Patent number: 6371128
    Abstract: A holder for compressing a filter of a cigarette includes a first portion having a cylindrical body having an axial through hole, the cylindrical body having an inner side formed with a semi-cylindrical recess, a first mouth piece hinged connected to an end of the cylindrical body and formed with a curved inner side which decreases in diameter from a top to a bottom thereof, the first mouth piece having two first engaging edges, a second portion having a second mouth piece and a semi-cylindrical portion at an end of the second mouth piece, the semi-cylindrical portion being configured to engage with the semi-cylindrical recess, the second mouth piece having two second engaging edges configured to engage with the first engaging edges of the first mouth piece, whereby when in use, a cigarette filter is inserted into the first portion and then the first mouth piece is engaged with the second mouth piece to compress the filter thereby decreasing the amount of nicotine and tars form passing therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2002
    Inventor: Ching Fang Hsueh
  • Publication number: 20010029959
    Abstract: Salts formed from nicotine and anion-forming sweeteners, for example acesulfame or acesulfame-K, in a molar ratio of 1:1 or 1:2, in which case the sweetener molecules can be identical or different, are distinguished by a pleasant sweet taste which masks the nicotine taste even after a long residence time in the mouth, and are therefore suitable for producing preparations, in particular chewing gum, chewing tablets or compressed compositions, which can be used for oral administration of nicotine, for example in withdrawal from smoking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Publication date: October 18, 2001
    Inventors: Andreas Burgard, Margit Dorr
  • Publication number: 20010027794
    Abstract: A habit cessation apparatus which can be used in a method for diminution or cessation of smoking or other habits is provided which collects data on a given users habits passively and provides a scheduled diminution program implemented by communication means such as displays, lights and/or audible cues.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventor: Vesta L. Brue
  • Patent number: 6125082
    Abstract: A timed cigarette dispenser for limiting the number of cigarettes available to a smoker to assist the smoker in reducing the number of cigarettes smoked over an interval of time, and/or to assist the smoker in quitting smoking. The dispenser includes a housing having a storage chamber therein for containing a quantity of cigarettes, and a solenoid operative to extend a plunger to engage a single cigarette and eject it partially from the housing where it may be grasped and withdrawn. An electronic timing circuit is connected with the dispensing solenoid to energize the solenoid upon the expiration of predetermined time intervals. A cover is latched closed over the storage compartment to prevent access to the storage compartment except when the storage compartment is empty. When the storage compartment is empty, a latch solenoid is automatically energized to disengage the latch and permit the cover to be opened.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Inventor: Adonis M. Reid
  • Patent number: 6098632
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a nicotine-impermeable container and a method for fabricating same. Additionally, the invention relates to a nicotine inhaling device which allows a user to ingest nicotine vapors orally. The nicotine inhaling device of the present invention is primarily directed to a device which can be used as a smoking cessation aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Pharmacia & Upjohn AB
    Inventors: James E. Turner, Michael P. Ellis, Ronald G. Oldham, Ira Hill, Bengt Eber Malmborg, Sven-Borje Andersson
  • Patent number: 6083962
    Abstract: A method of treating and reducing a drug dependency such as a nicotine dependency is provided. The method comprises initially administering to a subject a drug, such as nicotine or another agonist of the drug in an amount which would normally provide the desired pharmacologic effects and at least partially satiate the needs for the drug by a user. The method also comprises administering to the subject an antagonist to the drug or its other agonist in an amount sufficient to at least partially block the pharmacologic defects of the drug or its other agonist while there is a substantial amount of the drug or other agonist present in the system of the user. In one embodiment of the invention, the drug and the antagonist are administered substantially simultaneously so as to occupy a substantial portion of the receptors of the user for that drug thereby blocking or attenuating the effects of any further intake of the drug or other agonist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Robert J. Schaap
    Inventors: Jed E. Rose, Edward D. Levin
  • Patent number: 6082368
    Abstract: A nicotine candy is provided for consumption in small volumes and in a cigarette shaped package. Each portion of the candy is obtained by removing it from a cigarette shaped package from the end. In a first embodiment, standard paper is used to wrap the a series of linearly disposed candy portions. In a second embodiment, the package is made of edible rice paper, and may be torn off of the end in a single piece. The formulation of the candy preferably uses a food grade Beta-pyridyl-alpha-N-methylpyrrolidine dissolved into any standard hard sugar candy. This material is water soluble and is admixed into the sugar candy composition during candy formation. Preferably, the candy composition is available in a range of strengths which further enables users to regulate their doses. One or two or three pieces can be ingested simultaneously to enable control of the intake, in addition to the availability of the composition in different strengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Inventor: Graham H. Brown
  • Patent number: 6065592
    Abstract: An article for assisting persons to quit smoking and a method for doing same comprising a cigarette case; an insert located within said cigarette case and dividing its interior into a plurality of spaces, each sized to hold a single cigarette; and a plurality of closure devices, each of which can be used to seal one such space as the smoker gradually tapers daily cigarette consumption downward. A preferred embodiment includes a clear plastic shell covering the outside of said cigarette case, behind which shell such inspirational and motivational materials as photographs, other images, and/or handwritten or printed matter may be positioned in such a way as to be visible to the user each time the cigarette case is accessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2000
    Inventor: Dennis Ole Wik
  • Patent number: 6053176
    Abstract: A system for heating a cigarette to evolve an aerosol upon consumer request comprises a cigarette and a lighter. The lighter includes a housing into which the cigarette is inserted, and a stationary heater inside the housing is positioned in thermal proximity to the cigarette. The cigarette is rotatably mounted inside the housing. When a puff is desired, heat is applied to the cigarette to produce the aerosol. Prior to the next puff, the cigarette is slightly rotated to position a fresh portion of the cigarette in proximity to the stationary heater, and this procedure is repeated until the cigarette is spent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Philip Morris Incorporated
    Inventors: John M. Adams, Michael S. Braunshteyn, Mohammad R. Hajaligol, Wesley G. Sanderson
  • Patent number: 6041789
    Abstract: A non-pyrolytic cigarette substitute device which, in response to suction supplied by a user, delivers to the user a nicotine-simulating vapor mixture having a cigarette-like taste and aroma. The device has absorbed therein a solution of a volatile nicotinomimetic agonist in an amount effective for its released vapors to satisfy the physiological needs for nicotine of the user, and volatile palatability enhancing agents in amounts effective for their released vapors to neutralize any unpleasant taste and aroma of the nicotinomimetic agonist vapors and to impart a cigarette-like taste and aroma to the released vapor mixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: K&B Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Timothy J. Bankert, Karen Dumais, Richard M. Maiorino
  • Patent number: 6024097
    Abstract: A product for assisting a smoker in giving-up the smoking habit consists of at least three and preferably four pump operated aerosol dispensers. Each dispenser, apart from one, contains nicotine in liquid form dispersed in at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The dispensers which container nicotine have differing quantities in them. Pharmaceutically acceptable carriers are water, alcohol, a flavoring, glycerine and saccharine. The volume of alcohol and glycerine increases as the percentage of nicotine decreases. The dispenser which does not contain nicotine merely comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable substances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: J Mom Trust
    Inventor: Johannes Luow Kotze Von Wielligh
  • Patent number: 5967789
    Abstract: A system and method of use to help a person to stop or modify an adverse habitual health-related behavior, e.g., smoking, weight control, stress management, etc., by following a calculated regimen to commence on a day to be selected by the person. The system comprises a computer and a series of customized visually perceptible messages establishing a customized regimen to aid the person to stop or modify the adverse habitual health-related behavior. The computer is arranged to receive personal information about the person and which is relevant to the behavior and makes use of expert system software to provide the customized messages in response thereto. The customized messages are in the form of a daily sequence measured relative to day selected by the person for the regimen to begin. Each of the messages is arranged to be read by the person in sequence on a daily basis and includes respective numerical indicia representing the number of days from the selected day to the day of said message.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Smoke Stoppers International, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph M. Segel, Michael H. Samuelson
  • Patent number: 5938017
    Abstract: An article for assisting persons to quit smoking and a method for doing same comprising a cigarette case; an insert located within said cigarette case and dividing its interior into a plurality of spaces, each sized to hold a single cigarette; and a plurality of closure devices, each of which can be used to seal one such space as the smoker gradually tapers daily cigarette consumption downward. A preferred embodiment includes a clear plastic shell covering the outside of said cigarette case, behind which shell such inspirational and motivational materials as photographs, other images, and/or handwritten or printed matter may be positioned in such a way as to be visible to the user each time the cigarette case is accessed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Dennis O. Wik
  • Patent number: 5934894
    Abstract: An apparatus is described which preferably includes a rolled tobacco products cavity for storage of rolled tobacco products, a lighter cavity for receiving a lighter, and a clipping aperture having a cutting door movable thereover to cuts the lengths of rolled tobacco products inserted therein. A refuse cavity may be included in the apparatus adjacent the clipping aperture to store clippings from the rolled tobacco products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Cigler
  • Patent number: 5927285
    Abstract: A compact ashtray assembly having a hollow closable housing with upper and a lower members. Insertable into the lower member is a removable tray member with a depending ash receiving well having its own closable top cover member. By rotating a handle on the well top cover it may be closed or opened. Appropriate locks and mounts for the tray permit it to be retained within the housing lower member. Additional features include a storage chamber pocket located in the housing's upper member for smoker articles such as cigarettes, lighters, matches, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Inventors: Adrianna Lozano, Jose M. Diaz