The text "The Neurobiology of Addiction" explains that tobacco is obtained from the plant Nicotiana tabacum. The leaves are dried and smoked, snuffed or chewed. The addictive substance in tobacco is a drug called nicotine. Nicotine has a stimulatory effect on the nervous system, resulting in feelings of arousal, decreased appetite and increased energy. Nicotine use is believed to be reinforced, in part, by feelings of mild euphoria.
Desire to Smoke
A study published in the medical journal "Pediatrics" in May 2010 identified the sequence of symptoms leading to nicotine dependence. Cigarette craving and a strong desire to smoke were found to be the primary symptoms in the earliest stages of addiction.
Withdrawal Symptoms
The development of withdrawal symptoms is the hallmark of physical dependence on nicotine. The text "Neurobiology of Addiction" describes nicotine withdrawal symptoms to include decreased heart rate, stomach upset, increased appetite, depression, anxiety, frustration and difficulty concentrating. A review published in the April 2008 issue of "Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics" explains that nicotine withdrawal results in a decrease in the activity of certain chemical messengers used by the brain, making it difficult to experience pleasure. This contributes to the feelings of depression and angst felt by people attempting to give up smoking.
Feeling Addicted
Recognizing tobacco addiction is easy when users find that they have difficulty controlling tobacco use, notes the study published in the May 2010 issue of "Pediatrics." The user may find that they need to continue to smoke to avoid withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to quit. Users may also find that they avoid frequenting restaurants or other establishments where the activity is prohibited, explains MayoClinic.com.
References
- "The Neurobiology of Addiction"; George F Koob and Michel Le Moal; 2006
- "Pediatrics"; Early Course of Nicotine Dependence in Adolescent Smokers; Chyke A. Doubeni, George Reed and Joseph R. DiFranza; May 2010
- The Mayo Clinic: Symptoms of Nicotine Dependence
- "Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics"; Clinical Pharmacology of Nicotine: Implications for Understanding, Preventing, and Treating Tobacco Addiction; NL Benowitz; April 2008
