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.