Nicotine Dependence

Nicotine is a type of stimulant found in tobacco products. Nicotine dependence occurs when your body gets used to having some level of nicotine in your system. In physical and psychological ways, your body “depends” on constantly having the chemical.

• Physical dependence is when your body needs nicotine to avoid withdrawal symptoms — the unpleasant feelings that you get when you stop using it. Symptoms include restlessness and agitation.
• Psychological dependence is, for example, feeling like you need nicotine to get through your day because it’s part of your routine.