Nicotine is a chemical alkaloid derived from the nightshade plant family, a.k.a. tobacco plants. Markedly, nicotine has addictive properties because it works on the brain to trigger dopamine, a positive chemical messenger that’s felt throughout the body. Because nicotine is habit-forming, it’s not easy to quit using it and requires a detox process. As with any addictive substance, trying to wean off leads to withdrawal symptoms.
When Does Nicotine Withdrawal Peak?
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms will start after a person who’s developed dependence goes too long without the next dose. Depending on the person, the symptoms can kick in anywhere from four to 24 hours later. From their onset, they continue in severity until they peak about three or four days in. Of course, virtually every part of detox depends on factors surrounding the person, like their nicotine history and genetics.
What Are the Symptoms of Nicotine Withdrawal?
Nicotine withdrawal symptoms can include any or all of the following:
- Cravings
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Stomach pains
- Muscle cramps
- Trouble sleeping
- Tiredness
- Changes in appetite
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Coughing
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Brain fog
What Is the Nicotine Withdrawal Timeline?
Many people are long-term nicotine users, such as people who smoke cigarettes and vape. The longer a person has relied on nicotine, the harder it will be for them to stop. As such, the withdrawal timeline can last between two and four weeks. During this time, you’ll experience withdrawal symptoms, especially urges to take more. Symptoms can be mental, physical, and behavioral in nature. Usually, the first week is the hardest. As time progresses, your symptoms will reduce in severity and duration, especially since peak withdrawal is often days 3-4. However, be prepared for symptoms that linger for a full four months.
Self-Assessment: Am I Addicted?
"*" indicates required fields
Contact Us
Ready to Get Help? Get in Touch Today.
"*" indicates required fields
How Many People Use Nicotine?
Nicotine is a widely used substance since it is present in tobacco products, cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and vape devices. Around the world, an estimated 1.5 billion adults use tobacco products. These numbers have declined in recent years, with people realizing the negative and addictive effects of nicotine. However, a massive amount of the population is still at risk of experiencing withdrawal.
How Does Nicotine Affect the Body?
Nicotine has an impact throughout your system, on both your brain and body. When you intake nicotine, it is absorbed into your bloodstream. Notably, the areas it touches include the cardiovascular system, nervous system, immune system, and respiratory system.
Facts and Myths About Nicotine
One major myth people believe about nicotine is that it’s not addictive. This is simply not true. Nicotine works on the central nervous system to produce both physical and psychological dependency. Additionally, people often get confused about what products contain nicotine. All tobacco products do, including cigarettes, snuff, and e-cigarettes.
Tips for Quitting Nicotine
It’s not easy to quit nicotine, especially when trying to quit cold turkey. Yet, slowly cutting back can also easily fail. The best advice for giving up nicotine is to work with a treatment provider. Throughout the days and weeks of weaning off, they’ll administer necessary vitamins, help you stay at ease amidst the discomfort, and provide ongoing support. Talk to us about our medical detox program for nicotine addiction!
How Do People Use Nicotine?
Nicotine is present in tobacco-based products, which include cigars, cigarettes, hookahs, vapes, and e-cigarettes. Snuff and chewing tobacco are other products that don’t get injected through smoking.
Can an Addiction Treatment Center Help with Nicotine?
Although many people make the mistake of not considering nicotine to be dangerous, it is indeed an addictive substance. People who have become dependent on daily nicotine use may require professional intervention to help them detox. An addiction rehab center can absolutely help you overcome your nicotine addiction in a safe and supportive private program. Please reach out to us for more details today!
Questions about treatment options?
Our admissions team is available 24/7 to listen to your story and help you get started with the next steps.
Vogue Recovery Editorial Staff
Latest posts by Vogue Recovery Editorial Staff (see all)
- What Are the Most Common Weed Withdrawal Symptoms? - June 17, 2025
- Is Motivational Interviewing CBT? - June 17, 2025
