Towards better diagnoses and more individual treatment of tobacco dependence

Abstract

The nicotine dependence concept is well founded and it is clear that it is necessary to assess this before treatment starts. Behavioural dependence, although difficult to disentangle from the pharmacological dependence, is also important. With the development of tools for assessing behavioural dependence, the behavioural treatment methods could be applied to patients more appropriately. The place of new drugs such as clonidine and antidepressants is also discussed. It is suggested that some of the nicotine withdrawal syndrome may have similarities with hypoglycemia and increased eating after stopping smoking may be a form of self-medication. Lastly, the new forms of giving nicotine replacement are put in perspective.