Is cigarette smoking really addictive?
Yes. The nicotine in cigarette smoke causes an addiction to smoking. Nicotine is an addictive drug (just like heroin and cocaine) for 3 main reasons. • When taken in small amounts, nicotine creates pleasant feelings that make the smoker want to smoke more. • Smokers usually become dependent on nicotine and suffer physical and emotional (psychological) withdrawal symptoms when they stop smoking. These symptoms include nervousness, headaches, and trouble sleeping. • Because nicotine affects the chemistry of the brain and central nervous system, it can affect the mood and nature of the smoker.
