Dependence is a physical change in how your body reacts to a substance. In this case, nicotine. Your body will also have a reaction when you stop using it. Nicotine can be found in tobacco products such as:
Nicotine acts on the brain's chemistry. It creates feelings of pleasure. However, the effects go away within a few minutes. Users will need to continue using nicotine to keep the good feelings going. This cycle can lead to addiction.
Use of nicotine products is the main risk factor.
The risk of addiction increases with:
Symptoms only develop when nicotine is not being used. This is known as withdrawal. Symptoms of withdrawal include:
Tobacco use is also associated with several serious health conditions such as:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical, and smoking history. A physical exam will be done.
A blood test can check cotinine level in your saliva or blood. This will show changes in nicotine use. The doctor may use it to check your progress.
Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Treatment may involve one or more therapies. Options include:
NRT relieves withdrawal symptoms. NRT products include:
The chance of becoming dependent on these products is low. NRT does not create the same "feel good" feelings as nicotine.
NRT may help you to:
Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) turn liquid nicotine into a vapor. There is conflicting evidence on whether or not they may help you quit. In addition, the long-term effects of e-cigarette use are not known.
Behavioral therapies include:
Medicine that may help you quit include:
Other medicine may help ease withdrawal symptoms. A third type may be used if you start smoking again. It blocks the pleasure feeling when you use nicotine.
The best prevention is to never use tobacco products. Try to avoid places where people are smoking as well.
American Cancer Society
Freedom From Smoking—American Lung Association
Canadian Cancer Society
The Lung Association
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Last reviewed March 2018 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Adrian Preda, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.