Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsDefinitionSymptomsCausesTreatmentFrequently Asked Questions
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Definition
Symptoms
Causes
Treatment
Frequently Asked Questions
Verywell / Laura PorterMany smokers fear nicotine withdrawal symptoms when embarking on asmoking cessation plan. In fact, these symptoms are one of the main reasons why quitting smoking (or other forms of tobacco) is so difficult.From cravings to muscle and joint pain after quitting smoking, experiencing these nicotine withdrawal symptoms can make the process more challenging.This experience can be a distressing experience for some, triggering a host of physical and psychological symptoms. But it doesn’t mean that everyone will experience withdrawal in the same way.For example, people whoquit “cold turkey"tend to have more severe nicotine withdrawal symptoms than those using an approach that involves counseling, support systems, and quit-smoking aids such asnicotine replacement therapy (NRT).At a GlanceYou can experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms no matter what type of nicotine you’re quitting—whether smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or any other form of tobacco use. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms often begin within a few hours of quitting and often peak a few days after you stop using nicotine. Keep reading to learn more about the withdrawal symptoms you may experience, including nicotine cravings, weight gain, flu-like symptoms, sleep problems, and changes in mood.What Is Nicotine Withdrawal?Nicotine withdrawalrefers to what happens in the body when someone who has been using nicotine regularly stops or reduces their intake. This reduction or elimination of nicotine can result in experiencing nicotine withdrawal symptoms that are physical and psychological in nature.How long do nicotine withdrawal symptoms last?As far as a timeline is concerned, nicotine withdrawal symptoms can begin within two to three hours after you last used this drug. However, they are often strongest a few days after stopping nicotine completely.The"Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition” (DSM-5)outlines the criteria for tobacco withdrawal. The title of this condition was changed from “nicotine withdrawal,” which is what it was called in the DSM-IV.The nicotine withdrawal symptoms discussed here are not all the same criteria as listed in the DSM-5.Nicotine Withdrawal SymptomsBy understanding some of the signs and symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, you can better prepare for them and know how to respond if and when they occur. Here are a few of the most common, along with several ways to avoid them.While nicotine withdrawal symptoms can be challenging, it’s important to remember that these effects are only temporary. With a little preparation and persistence, youwillget through them.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Many smokers fear nicotine withdrawal symptoms when embarking on asmoking cessation plan. In fact, these symptoms are one of the main reasons why quitting smoking (or other forms of tobacco) is so difficult.From cravings to muscle and joint pain after quitting smoking, experiencing these nicotine withdrawal symptoms can make the process more challenging.
This experience can be a distressing experience for some, triggering a host of physical and psychological symptoms. But it doesn’t mean that everyone will experience withdrawal in the same way.
For example, people whoquit “cold turkey"tend to have more severe nicotine withdrawal symptoms than those using an approach that involves counseling, support systems, and quit-smoking aids such asnicotine replacement therapy (NRT).
At a GlanceYou can experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms no matter what type of nicotine you’re quitting—whether smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or any other form of tobacco use. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms often begin within a few hours of quitting and often peak a few days after you stop using nicotine. Keep reading to learn more about the withdrawal symptoms you may experience, including nicotine cravings, weight gain, flu-like symptoms, sleep problems, and changes in mood.
At a Glance
You can experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms no matter what type of nicotine you’re quitting—whether smoking, vaping, chewing tobacco, or any other form of tobacco use. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms often begin within a few hours of quitting and often peak a few days after you stop using nicotine. Keep reading to learn more about the withdrawal symptoms you may experience, including nicotine cravings, weight gain, flu-like symptoms, sleep problems, and changes in mood.
What Is Nicotine Withdrawal?
Nicotine withdrawalrefers to what happens in the body when someone who has been using nicotine regularly stops or reduces their intake. This reduction or elimination of nicotine can result in experiencing nicotine withdrawal symptoms that are physical and psychological in nature.
How long do nicotine withdrawal symptoms last?As far as a timeline is concerned, nicotine withdrawal symptoms can begin within two to three hours after you last used this drug. However, they are often strongest a few days after stopping nicotine completely.
How long do nicotine withdrawal symptoms last?
As far as a timeline is concerned, nicotine withdrawal symptoms can begin within two to three hours after you last used this drug. However, they are often strongest a few days after stopping nicotine completely.
The"Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition” (DSM-5)outlines the criteria for tobacco withdrawal. The title of this condition was changed from “nicotine withdrawal,” which is what it was called in the DSM-IV.
The nicotine withdrawal symptoms discussed here are not all the same criteria as listed in the DSM-5.
Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms
By understanding some of the signs and symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, you can better prepare for them and know how to respond if and when they occur. Here are a few of the most common, along with several ways to avoid them.
While nicotine withdrawal symptoms can be challenging, it’s important to remember that these effects are only temporary. With a little preparation and persistence, youwillget through them.
1
Nicotine Cravings
A craving is a physiological response in which the body yearns for something to which it has adapted and become tolerant. When suddenly deprived of nicotine, the brain no longer releases the “feel-good” hormonedopamine, which the body has grown accustomed to.
How to Cope With CravingsNicotine cravings typically last for five to 10 minutes and may be extremely uncomfortable. To cope with this nicotine withdrawal symptom, remind yourself that the feeling will pass. Chewingnicotine gumor taking a long, brisk walk can also help as you wait them out.
How to Cope With Cravings
Nicotine cravings typically last for five to 10 minutes and may be extremely uncomfortable. To cope with this nicotine withdrawal symptom, remind yourself that the feeling will pass. Chewingnicotine gumor taking a long, brisk walk can also help as you wait them out.
2
Flu-Like Symptoms
The sudden cessation of smoking can trigger an immune response, causing it to react in much the same way as it would to bacteria or a virus it considers abnormal.
In most cases, quitter’s flu will last for only a couple of days. Nicotine replacement therapy, along with over-the-counter pain relievers, may help ease these symptoms.
3Weight GainThe urge to snack is a nicotine withdrawal symptom that involves more than just replacing cigarettes with food. Nicotine causes changes to cells that make them not respond as well to insulin, which can increase your body’s blood sugar levels.As a result, when quitting smoking, you may feel the need to consume carbs, orcrave sweetsand other foods to satiate this sudden and often unexplained hunger. Thankfully, this effect will stabilize as your body adjusts to being nicotine-free.Research shows that people who quit cigarettes gain an average of 10 pounds after one year, with most of the gain occurring during the first three months.In the meantime, to keep from gaining weight when quitting smoking, it helps to control your snacking. Do something to distract yourself instead eating, such as engaging in physical exercise.And if you do snack, choose healthy foods that won’t contribute to weight gain. Fruits and vegetables are good options to consider.
3
Weight GainThe urge to snack is a nicotine withdrawal symptom that involves more than just replacing cigarettes with food. Nicotine causes changes to cells that make them not respond as well to insulin, which can increase your body’s blood sugar levels.As a result, when quitting smoking, you may feel the need to consume carbs, orcrave sweetsand other foods to satiate this sudden and often unexplained hunger. Thankfully, this effect will stabilize as your body adjusts to being nicotine-free.Research shows that people who quit cigarettes gain an average of 10 pounds after one year, with most of the gain occurring during the first three months.In the meantime, to keep from gaining weight when quitting smoking, it helps to control your snacking. Do something to distract yourself instead eating, such as engaging in physical exercise.And if you do snack, choose healthy foods that won’t contribute to weight gain. Fruits and vegetables are good options to consider.
Weight Gain
The urge to snack is a nicotine withdrawal symptom that involves more than just replacing cigarettes with food. Nicotine causes changes to cells that make them not respond as well to insulin, which can increase your body’s blood sugar levels.
As a result, when quitting smoking, you may feel the need to consume carbs, orcrave sweetsand other foods to satiate this sudden and often unexplained hunger. Thankfully, this effect will stabilize as your body adjusts to being nicotine-free.
Research shows that people who quit cigarettes gain an average of 10 pounds after one year, with most of the gain occurring during the first three months.
In the meantime, to keep from gaining weight when quitting smoking, it helps to control your snacking. Do something to distract yourself instead eating, such as engaging in physical exercise.
And if you do snack, choose healthy foods that won’t contribute to weight gain. Fruits and vegetables are good options to consider.
4Sleep DisturbancesSleep problems are common nicotine withdrawal symptoms and can run the gamut frominsomniato needing extra sleep during the day. These symptoms are also closely linked to the dysregulation of dopamine, which is involved in sleep regulation.While sleep disturbances and insomnia are symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, research has indicated that smokers tend to experience worse sleep than non-smokers.Torelieve insomnia when quitting smoking, consider any other factors that may be contributing to your sleep issues. If you drink caffeine later in the day, for instance, changing this habit can make it easier to get and stay asleep.It can also be helpful to develop a pre-sleep routine that helps you relax. This might involve ending your day with a nice bath or reading a few pages in your favorite book to help calm your mind.
4
Sleep DisturbancesSleep problems are common nicotine withdrawal symptoms and can run the gamut frominsomniato needing extra sleep during the day. These symptoms are also closely linked to the dysregulation of dopamine, which is involved in sleep regulation.While sleep disturbances and insomnia are symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, research has indicated that smokers tend to experience worse sleep than non-smokers.Torelieve insomnia when quitting smoking, consider any other factors that may be contributing to your sleep issues. If you drink caffeine later in the day, for instance, changing this habit can make it easier to get and stay asleep.It can also be helpful to develop a pre-sleep routine that helps you relax. This might involve ending your day with a nice bath or reading a few pages in your favorite book to help calm your mind.
Sleep Disturbances
Sleep problems are common nicotine withdrawal symptoms and can run the gamut frominsomniato needing extra sleep during the day. These symptoms are also closely linked to the dysregulation of dopamine, which is involved in sleep regulation.
While sleep disturbances and insomnia are symptoms of nicotine withdrawal, research has indicated that smokers tend to experience worse sleep than non-smokers.
Torelieve insomnia when quitting smoking, consider any other factors that may be contributing to your sleep issues. If you drink caffeine later in the day, for instance, changing this habit can make it easier to get and stay asleep.
It can also be helpful to develop a pre-sleep routine that helps you relax. This might involve ending your day with a nice bath or reading a few pages in your favorite book to help calm your mind.
5
Persistent Cough
Some people develop apersistent coughafterthey quit smoking.This can cause you to feel worse instead of better. As odd as this may seem, coughing at this stage is a sign that your lungs are getting better.
When you smoke, the tiny finger-like projections in the lining of your airways (called cilia) become immobilized and eventually flatten out. After you quit, the cilia return to their normal shape and function, pushing toxic deposits out of the lungs to be coughed up.
How to Relieve Coughing
6
Mood Changes
This stress can not only cause extreme changes in mood, including sudden and irrational outbursts, but it can also trigger short-term physiological changes such as increased blood pressure and heart rate.
Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and dizziness are also common. So are feelings of anxiety, which often occur within three days of quitting but may last several weeks.
These psychological symptoms can worsen if you are sleep-deprived, further leading to bouts of anxiety ordepression.
Findingways to reduce your stresswhen quitting smoking can help avoid this common nicotine withdrawal symptom. This may involve journaling, talking with a friend, or finding a physical activity that you enjoy.
7
Constipation
Older research revealed that as many as one in six people who quit cigarettes experience bouts ofconstipation, and it generally lasts for one to two weeks.
Drinking plenty of water can help normalize your bowel movements. Increasing your intake of dietary fiber may reduce this nicotine withdrawal symptom as well.
Causes of Nicotine Withdrawal SymptomsNicotine withdrawal occurs because the body has become dependent on this drug.Specifically,nicotinestimulates the release of dopamine in your brain. So, when you stop using it, there is less dopamine released, resulting in withdrawal symptoms. (Nicotine affects other neurotransmitters as well.)While nicotine withdrawal can be uncomfortable, it does make your body healthier versus hurting it.Behavioral factors are also thought to influence nicotine withdrawal symptoms. For example, just seeing someone smoking or smelling a cigarette can increase your cravings to do the same.Treatment for Nicotine Withdrawal SymptomsThere are a few treatments to help with nicotine withdrawal, including:Nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs): Examples of NRTs include nicotine gum,patches, andlozenges, all of which are available over the counter. Nicotine nasal sprays andinhalersare available with a prescription.Prescription medications: The antidepressantZyban(bupropion) (also sold under the brand name Wellbutrin) and the smoking cessation aidChantix(varenicline) can help with nicotine withdrawal symptoms.Speak to a healthcare provider about what treatment might be best for you. In addition to medications and NRTs, you can also seek psychological support from a support group, quit-tobacco program, or mental health professional.If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use or addiction, contact theSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helplineat1-800-662-4357for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.The Best Online Therapy ProgramsWe’ve tried, tested and written unbiased reviews of the best online therapy programs including Talkspace, Betterhelp, and Regain.TakeawaysNicotine withdrawal symptoms can be intense and uncomfortable. But this phase of smoking cessationwon’t last forever. And, if prepared, youcanmanage and cope with the symptoms as they come.In the end, thebenefits of quittingfar outweigh any short-term discomfort you may experience through withdrawal. If you take it one step at a time, you’ll get there. Try not to get ahead of yourself and worry about never smoking again. Just focus on today and do whatever you can toremain smoke-free.Frequently Asked QuestionsYes, quitting smoking can lead to muscle ache and joint pain. This is often referred to as the “quitter’s flu” and can also include symptoms such as fever, stuffy nose, coughing, and lack of energy.Smoking is associated with increased inflammation, so quitting smoking can lead to significant improvements. This can take time, but it contributes to a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.One study reports that inflammation begins to subside just two weeks after quitting.Other research suggests that the inflammatory response associated with smoking returns to normal within five years of quitting.More recently, research suggests that smoking can continue to affect the body’s immune response for years or decades after quitting.This has implications for the long-term effects of smoking and how it can contribute to the development of infection, autoimmune conditions, and cancer.The health benefits of quitting are progressive and can take time, but start almost immediately after quitting. Within 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop. A year after quitting, the cilia in your lung regain their normal function. By two years, your risk of heart attacks drops significantly. Between five and 10 years, your risk of different cancers drops dramatically. By 15 years after quitting, your risk of coronary heart disease has dropped to almost that of a non-smoker.
Causes of Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms
Nicotine withdrawal occurs because the body has become dependent on this drug.Specifically,nicotinestimulates the release of dopamine in your brain. So, when you stop using it, there is less dopamine released, resulting in withdrawal symptoms. (Nicotine affects other neurotransmitters as well.)
While nicotine withdrawal can be uncomfortable, it does make your body healthier versus hurting it.
Behavioral factors are also thought to influence nicotine withdrawal symptoms. For example, just seeing someone smoking or smelling a cigarette can increase your cravings to do the same.
Treatment for Nicotine Withdrawal Symptoms
There are a few treatments to help with nicotine withdrawal, including:
Speak to a healthcare provider about what treatment might be best for you. In addition to medications and NRTs, you can also seek psychological support from a support group, quit-tobacco program, or mental health professional.
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use or addiction, contact theSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helplineat1-800-662-4357for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
If you or a loved one are struggling with substance use or addiction, contact theSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helplineat1-800-662-4357for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
The Best Online Therapy ProgramsWe’ve tried, tested and written unbiased reviews of the best online therapy programs including Talkspace, Betterhelp, and Regain.
Takeaways
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms can be intense and uncomfortable. But this phase of smoking cessationwon’t last forever. And, if prepared, youcanmanage and cope with the symptoms as they come.
In the end, thebenefits of quittingfar outweigh any short-term discomfort you may experience through withdrawal. If you take it one step at a time, you’ll get there. Try not to get ahead of yourself and worry about never smoking again. Just focus on today and do whatever you can toremain smoke-free.
Frequently Asked QuestionsYes, quitting smoking can lead to muscle ache and joint pain. This is often referred to as the “quitter’s flu” and can also include symptoms such as fever, stuffy nose, coughing, and lack of energy.Smoking is associated with increased inflammation, so quitting smoking can lead to significant improvements. This can take time, but it contributes to a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.One study reports that inflammation begins to subside just two weeks after quitting.Other research suggests that the inflammatory response associated with smoking returns to normal within five years of quitting.More recently, research suggests that smoking can continue to affect the body’s immune response for years or decades after quitting.This has implications for the long-term effects of smoking and how it can contribute to the development of infection, autoimmune conditions, and cancer.The health benefits of quitting are progressive and can take time, but start almost immediately after quitting. Within 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop. A year after quitting, the cilia in your lung regain their normal function. By two years, your risk of heart attacks drops significantly. Between five and 10 years, your risk of different cancers drops dramatically. By 15 years after quitting, your risk of coronary heart disease has dropped to almost that of a non-smoker.
Yes, quitting smoking can lead to muscle ache and joint pain. This is often referred to as the “quitter’s flu” and can also include symptoms such as fever, stuffy nose, coughing, and lack of energy.
Smoking is associated with increased inflammation, so quitting smoking can lead to significant improvements. This can take time, but it contributes to a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease.
One study reports that inflammation begins to subside just two weeks after quitting.Other research suggests that the inflammatory response associated with smoking returns to normal within five years of quitting.More recently, research suggests that smoking can continue to affect the body’s immune response for years or decades after quitting.This has implications for the long-term effects of smoking and how it can contribute to the development of infection, autoimmune conditions, and cancer.
The health benefits of quitting are progressive and can take time, but start almost immediately after quitting. Within 20 minutes, your heart rate and blood pressure drop. A year after quitting, the cilia in your lung regain their normal function. By two years, your risk of heart attacks drops significantly. Between five and 10 years, your risk of different cancers drops dramatically. By 15 years after quitting, your risk of coronary heart disease has dropped to almost that of a non-smoker.
22 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Why quitting smoking is so hard.López-Torrecillas F, Mar Rueda M, López-Quirantes EM, Santiago JM, Rodríguez Tapioles R.Adherence to treatment to help quit smoking: effects of task performance and coping with withdrawal symptoms.BMC Public Health. 2014;13:1217. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-14-1217American Psychological Association.Nicotine withdrawal.American Psychiatric Association (APA).Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed, text revision. Washington, D.C.; 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787Jackson KJ, Muldoon PP, De biasi M, Damaj MI.New mechanisms and perspectives in nicotine withdrawal.Neuropharmacol. 2015;96(Pt B):223-34. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.11.009Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Smoking and diabetes.Chao AM, Wadden TA, Ashare RL, Loughead J, Schmidt HD.Tobacco smoking, eating behaviors, and body weight: A review.Curr Addict Rep. 2019;6:191-199. doi:10.1007/s40429-019-00253-3Liao Y, Xie L, Chen X, et al.Sleep quality in cigarette smokers and nonsmokers: Findings from the general population in central China.BMC Public Health. 2019;19(1):808. doi:10.1186/s12889-019-6929-4Tran CT, Bosilkovska M, de La Bourdonnaye G, Blanc N, Haziza C.Reduced levels of biomarkers of exposure in smokers switching to the Carbon-Heated Tobacco Product 1.0: a controlled, randomized, open-label 5-day exposure trial.Sci Rep. 2020;10(1):19227. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-76222-yNakajima M, Al’absi M.Nicotine withdrawal and stress-induced changes in pain sensitivity: A cross-sectional investigation between abstinent smokers and nonsmokers.Psychophysiology. 2014;51(10):1015-22. doi:10.1111/psyp.12241National Cancer Institute.Handling nicotine withdrawal and triggers when you decide to quit tobacco.Hajek P, Gillison F, McRobbie H.Stopping smoking can cause constipation.Addiction. 2003;98(11):1563-7. doi:10.1046/j.1360-0443.2003.00497.xNational Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes report: Is nicotine addictive?National Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes research report: Is nicotine addictive?Food and Drug Administration.Want to quit smoking? FDA-approved and FDA-cleared cessation products can help.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How quit smoking medicines work.American Cancer Society.Dealing with the mental part of tobacco addiction.Derella CC, Tingen MS, Blanks A, et al.Smoking cessation reduces systemic inflammation and circulating endothelin-1.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):24122. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-03476-5Darabseh MZ, Maden-Wilkinson TM, Welbourne G, et al.Fourteen days of smoking cessation improves muscle fatigue resistance and reverses markers of systemic inflammation.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):12286. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-91510-xSmoking and inflammation.PLoS Med. 2005;2(6):e198. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.0020198Saint-André V, Charbit B, Biton A, et al.Smoking changes adaptive immunity with persistent effects.Nature. 2024;626(8000):827-835. doi:10.1038/s41586-023-06968-8American Cancer Society.Health benefits of quitting smoking over time.
22 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Why quitting smoking is so hard.López-Torrecillas F, Mar Rueda M, López-Quirantes EM, Santiago JM, Rodríguez Tapioles R.Adherence to treatment to help quit smoking: effects of task performance and coping with withdrawal symptoms.BMC Public Health. 2014;13:1217. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-14-1217American Psychological Association.Nicotine withdrawal.American Psychiatric Association (APA).Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed, text revision. Washington, D.C.; 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787Jackson KJ, Muldoon PP, De biasi M, Damaj MI.New mechanisms and perspectives in nicotine withdrawal.Neuropharmacol. 2015;96(Pt B):223-34. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.11.009Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Smoking and diabetes.Chao AM, Wadden TA, Ashare RL, Loughead J, Schmidt HD.Tobacco smoking, eating behaviors, and body weight: A review.Curr Addict Rep. 2019;6:191-199. doi:10.1007/s40429-019-00253-3Liao Y, Xie L, Chen X, et al.Sleep quality in cigarette smokers and nonsmokers: Findings from the general population in central China.BMC Public Health. 2019;19(1):808. doi:10.1186/s12889-019-6929-4Tran CT, Bosilkovska M, de La Bourdonnaye G, Blanc N, Haziza C.Reduced levels of biomarkers of exposure in smokers switching to the Carbon-Heated Tobacco Product 1.0: a controlled, randomized, open-label 5-day exposure trial.Sci Rep. 2020;10(1):19227. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-76222-yNakajima M, Al’absi M.Nicotine withdrawal and stress-induced changes in pain sensitivity: A cross-sectional investigation between abstinent smokers and nonsmokers.Psychophysiology. 2014;51(10):1015-22. doi:10.1111/psyp.12241National Cancer Institute.Handling nicotine withdrawal and triggers when you decide to quit tobacco.Hajek P, Gillison F, McRobbie H.Stopping smoking can cause constipation.Addiction. 2003;98(11):1563-7. doi:10.1046/j.1360-0443.2003.00497.xNational Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes report: Is nicotine addictive?National Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes research report: Is nicotine addictive?Food and Drug Administration.Want to quit smoking? FDA-approved and FDA-cleared cessation products can help.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How quit smoking medicines work.American Cancer Society.Dealing with the mental part of tobacco addiction.Derella CC, Tingen MS, Blanks A, et al.Smoking cessation reduces systemic inflammation and circulating endothelin-1.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):24122. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-03476-5Darabseh MZ, Maden-Wilkinson TM, Welbourne G, et al.Fourteen days of smoking cessation improves muscle fatigue resistance and reverses markers of systemic inflammation.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):12286. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-91510-xSmoking and inflammation.PLoS Med. 2005;2(6):e198. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.0020198Saint-André V, Charbit B, Biton A, et al.Smoking changes adaptive immunity with persistent effects.Nature. 2024;626(8000):827-835. doi:10.1038/s41586-023-06968-8American Cancer Society.Health benefits of quitting smoking over time.
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Why quitting smoking is so hard.López-Torrecillas F, Mar Rueda M, López-Quirantes EM, Santiago JM, Rodríguez Tapioles R.Adherence to treatment to help quit smoking: effects of task performance and coping with withdrawal symptoms.BMC Public Health. 2014;13:1217. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-14-1217American Psychological Association.Nicotine withdrawal.American Psychiatric Association (APA).Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed, text revision. Washington, D.C.; 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787Jackson KJ, Muldoon PP, De biasi M, Damaj MI.New mechanisms and perspectives in nicotine withdrawal.Neuropharmacol. 2015;96(Pt B):223-34. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.11.009Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Smoking and diabetes.Chao AM, Wadden TA, Ashare RL, Loughead J, Schmidt HD.Tobacco smoking, eating behaviors, and body weight: A review.Curr Addict Rep. 2019;6:191-199. doi:10.1007/s40429-019-00253-3Liao Y, Xie L, Chen X, et al.Sleep quality in cigarette smokers and nonsmokers: Findings from the general population in central China.BMC Public Health. 2019;19(1):808. doi:10.1186/s12889-019-6929-4Tran CT, Bosilkovska M, de La Bourdonnaye G, Blanc N, Haziza C.Reduced levels of biomarkers of exposure in smokers switching to the Carbon-Heated Tobacco Product 1.0: a controlled, randomized, open-label 5-day exposure trial.Sci Rep. 2020;10(1):19227. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-76222-yNakajima M, Al’absi M.Nicotine withdrawal and stress-induced changes in pain sensitivity: A cross-sectional investigation between abstinent smokers and nonsmokers.Psychophysiology. 2014;51(10):1015-22. doi:10.1111/psyp.12241National Cancer Institute.Handling nicotine withdrawal and triggers when you decide to quit tobacco.Hajek P, Gillison F, McRobbie H.Stopping smoking can cause constipation.Addiction. 2003;98(11):1563-7. doi:10.1046/j.1360-0443.2003.00497.xNational Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes report: Is nicotine addictive?National Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes research report: Is nicotine addictive?Food and Drug Administration.Want to quit smoking? FDA-approved and FDA-cleared cessation products can help.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How quit smoking medicines work.American Cancer Society.Dealing with the mental part of tobacco addiction.Derella CC, Tingen MS, Blanks A, et al.Smoking cessation reduces systemic inflammation and circulating endothelin-1.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):24122. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-03476-5Darabseh MZ, Maden-Wilkinson TM, Welbourne G, et al.Fourteen days of smoking cessation improves muscle fatigue resistance and reverses markers of systemic inflammation.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):12286. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-91510-xSmoking and inflammation.PLoS Med. 2005;2(6):e198. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.0020198Saint-André V, Charbit B, Biton A, et al.Smoking changes adaptive immunity with persistent effects.Nature. 2024;626(8000):827-835. doi:10.1038/s41586-023-06968-8American Cancer Society.Health benefits of quitting smoking over time.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Why quitting smoking is so hard.
López-Torrecillas F, Mar Rueda M, López-Quirantes EM, Santiago JM, Rodríguez Tapioles R.Adherence to treatment to help quit smoking: effects of task performance and coping with withdrawal symptoms.BMC Public Health. 2014;13:1217. doi:10.1186/1471-2458-14-1217
American Psychological Association.Nicotine withdrawal.
American Psychiatric Association (APA).Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. 5th ed, text revision. Washington, D.C.; 2022. doi:10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787
Jackson KJ, Muldoon PP, De biasi M, Damaj MI.New mechanisms and perspectives in nicotine withdrawal.Neuropharmacol. 2015;96(Pt B):223-34. doi:10.1016/j.neuropharm.2014.11.009
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Smoking and diabetes.
Chao AM, Wadden TA, Ashare RL, Loughead J, Schmidt HD.Tobacco smoking, eating behaviors, and body weight: A review.Curr Addict Rep. 2019;6:191-199. doi:10.1007/s40429-019-00253-3
Liao Y, Xie L, Chen X, et al.Sleep quality in cigarette smokers and nonsmokers: Findings from the general population in central China.BMC Public Health. 2019;19(1):808. doi:10.1186/s12889-019-6929-4
Tran CT, Bosilkovska M, de La Bourdonnaye G, Blanc N, Haziza C.Reduced levels of biomarkers of exposure in smokers switching to the Carbon-Heated Tobacco Product 1.0: a controlled, randomized, open-label 5-day exposure trial.Sci Rep. 2020;10(1):19227. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-76222-y
Nakajima M, Al’absi M.Nicotine withdrawal and stress-induced changes in pain sensitivity: A cross-sectional investigation between abstinent smokers and nonsmokers.Psychophysiology. 2014;51(10):1015-22. doi:10.1111/psyp.12241
National Cancer Institute.Handling nicotine withdrawal and triggers when you decide to quit tobacco.
Hajek P, Gillison F, McRobbie H.Stopping smoking can cause constipation.Addiction. 2003;98(11):1563-7. doi:10.1046/j.1360-0443.2003.00497.x
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes report: Is nicotine addictive?
National Institute on Drug Abuse.Tobacco, nicotine, and e-cigarettes research report: Is nicotine addictive?
Food and Drug Administration.Want to quit smoking? FDA-approved and FDA-cleared cessation products can help.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.How quit smoking medicines work.
American Cancer Society.Dealing with the mental part of tobacco addiction.
Derella CC, Tingen MS, Blanks A, et al.Smoking cessation reduces systemic inflammation and circulating endothelin-1.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):24122. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-03476-5
Darabseh MZ, Maden-Wilkinson TM, Welbourne G, et al.Fourteen days of smoking cessation improves muscle fatigue resistance and reverses markers of systemic inflammation.Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):12286. doi:10.1038/s41598-021-91510-x
Smoking and inflammation.PLoS Med. 2005;2(6):e198. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.0020198
Saint-André V, Charbit B, Biton A, et al.Smoking changes adaptive immunity with persistent effects.Nature. 2024;626(8000):827-835. doi:10.1038/s41586-023-06968-8
American Cancer Society.Health benefits of quitting smoking over time.
Meet Our Review Board
Share Feedback
Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit
What is your feedback?
