Nicotine withdrawal

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.

Pronunciation

Nicotine withdrawal: /nɪkətiːn wɪðˈdrɔːl/

Etymology

The term "nicotine" is derived from the tobacco plant Nicotiana tabacum, which in turn is named after the French ambassador in Portugal, Jean Nicot de Villemain, who sent tobacco and seeds to Paris in 1560, and promoted their medicinal use. "Withdrawal" comes from the Old English "withdrawian" meaning to take back or away.

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
• Insomnia
• Restlessness
• Hunger or weight gain
• Difficulty concentrating

Treatment

Treatment for nicotine withdrawal symptoms can involve nicotine replacement therapy, which includes nicotine gum, patches, lozenges, inhalers, or nasal spray. Other non-nicotine medication can also be used such as bupropion (Zyban) and varenicline (Chantix).

Related Terms

• Nicotine
• Nicotine Replacement Therapy
• Bupropion
• Varenicline
• Withdrawal Symptoms
• Tobacco
• Smoking Cessation

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Nicotine withdrawal
• Wikipedia's article - Nicotine withdrawal

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