Nicotine Dependence Test
Nicotine is the addictive substance found in cigarettes. The strength of nicotine addiction is just as powerful as cocaine, heroin or alcohol addiction. After each drag of a cigarette, it takes no less than 7 seconds for the drug to reach the brain. Each dose of nicotine delivers an enjoyable albeit short-lived feeling that leaves you wanting more. This is what happens, for example, when you crave a cigarette when you wake up in the morning. Your body is reacting to the low levels of nicotine in your blood and telling you that it wants more. Users become physically dependent on the drug. You can fill out the questionnaire below to assess your level of nicotine dependence. Once you have answered all the questions, add up your points. Your final score will indicate whether your nicotine dependence is high or low.
| 1. How soon after you wake up do you smoke your first cigarette? | ||
| Within 5 minutes | 3 points | |
| 6 to 30 minutes | 2 points | |
| 31 to 60 minutes | 1 point | |
| After 60 minutes | 0 point | |
| 2. Do you find it difficult to refrain from smoking in places where it is banned? | ||
| Yes | 1 point | |
| No | 0 point | |
| 3. Which cigarette would you most hate to give up? | ||
| The first one in the morning | 1 point | |
| Any other | 0 point | |
| 4. How many cigarettes do you smoke every day? | ||
| 10 or less | 0 point | |
| 11 to 20 | 1 point | |
| 21 to 30 | 2 points | |
| 31 or more | 3 points | |
| 5. Do you smoke more frequently during the first hours after waking than during the rest of the day? | ||
| Yes | 1 point | |
| No | 0 point | |
| 6. Do you smoke even when you are so ill that you are in bed most of the day? | ||
| Yes | 1 point | |
| No | 0 point | |
| Your score : ________ | ||
| Interpretation of results | |
|---|---|
| 0 to 6 points | Low nicotine dependence |
| 7 to 10 points | High nicotine dependence |
If you want help to stop smoking, speak to your pharmacist or physician.
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The patient information leaflets are provided by Vigilance Santé Inc. This content is for information purposes only and does not in any manner whatsoever replace the opinion or advice of your health care professional. Always consult a health care professional before making a decision about your medication or treatment.