Nicotine withdrawal

Nicotine withdrawal is a group of symptoms that occur in the first few weeks upon the abrupt discontinuation or decrease in intake of nicotine. Symptoms include intense cravings for nicotine, anger or irritability, anxiety, depression, impatience, trouble sleeping, restlessness, hunger or weight gain, and difficulty concentrating. Nicotine withdrawal is a short phase overall, but it can be intense.

Symptoms

Nicotine withdrawal symptoms usually reach their peak 2 to 3 days after you quit and are gone within 1 to 3 months. It takes at least 3 months for your brain chemistry to return to normal after you quit smoking. The most common nicotine withdrawal symptoms are:

• Irritability, frustration, and anger
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Impatience
• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Hunger or weight gain
• Difficulty concentrating

Causes

Nicotine withdrawal is caused by the cessation or reduction of prolonged nicotine use. Nicotine's addictive nature includes psychological dependence, physical dependence, tolerance, and reinforcement.

Treatment

Treatment for nicotine withdrawal symptoms can involve nicotine replacement therapy, such as nicotine gum, patches, inhalers, sprays, and lozenges. Other non-nicotine medication can also be used such as bupropion and varenicline.

See also

• Tobacco withdrawal
• Smoking cessation
• Nicotine dependence

References

Nicotine withdrawal Resources
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