Understanding nicotine withdrawal - symptoms

What is nicotine withdrawal?

Nicotine is an addictive drug found in tobacco. When you stop smoking you are likely to have nicotine withdrawal symptoms, which include headaches, anxiety, nausea and cravings for more tobacco.

Nicotine creates a chemical dependency so your body develops a need for a certain level of nicotine at all times. Unless that level is maintained - by smoking or by using nicotine replacement treatments - your body will begin to go through withdrawal.

For tobacco users trying to stop smoking, nicotine withdrawal symptoms are unpleasant and stressful - but they are temporary. Most withdrawal symptoms peak 48 hours after you stop smoking and are completely gone in six months. But after that, you may find yourself eating more - and gaining weight in the process.

What causes nicotine withdrawal?

The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal are physiological responses to the removal of a substance your body has become dependent on: nicotine.

What are the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal?

In active smokers, a lack of nicotine produces a wide range of withdrawal symptoms, including any or all of the following: 

• Headache
• Nausea
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Falling heart rate and blood pressure
• Fatigue, drowsiness and insomnia
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Increased hunger and calorific intake
• Increased desire for the taste of sweets
• Tobacco cravings

If you are a smoker concerned about your health for any reason you should seek medical advice. Smokers are more susceptible to respiratory problems, circulatory problems such as stroke and heart attack, and many forms of cancer.

If you want to stop smoking you should contact your local NHS Stop Smoking Service for free advice, support and treatment.