Nicotine dependence: diagnosis, pharmacology and treatment

Nicotine dependence has been clearly documented as an addiction to nicotine. The development of tolerance and dependence to nicotine has been documented as well in studies in animals and humans. The morbidity and mortality from nicotine dependence continues to be widespread and significant in spite of some reduction in the prevalence of use. Various modalities of pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments have been developed in recent years. These treatment methods may be used singularly or in combination. Although some success has been claimed with each form of treatment, more studies are needed to confirm their full efficacy.