Tobacco addictions

Journal/Book: Z Klin Psychol Psychiatr Psyc. 1999; 47: Postfach 2540, W-4790 Paderborn, Germany. Verlag Ferdinand Schoningh. 107-114.

Abstract: The consumption of tobacco may have pleasurable, psychotropic and toxic effects. Pleasure may arise simply from handling a cigarette or pipe, but first of all it is a substantial effect of nicotine which can be both stimulating and sedative. Nicotine itself is most probably not toxic but induces dependence and thereby increases the intake of the various toxic components of tobacco, particularly carbon monoxide, cyano-hydrogen and compounds of tar. Health damages provoked by tobacco consumption often have a late onset and may be denied for along time. These characteristics are specific for tobacco. Smoking tobacco is presumably the most important problem in the field of addiction, at least as important as alcoholism and by far more important than the consumption of illegal drugs. - Today the best therapy is behavior therapy combined with transdermal substitution of nicotine (nicotine patches), which may have long-term effects in about a third of those persons who seek therapeutic help. Prevention and the protection of nonsmokers are still to a large extent unsolved problems. - Problems concerning public health, economic and financial policies are discussed. - Concerning the fight against tobacco abuse Germany has a backward position in an international perspective.

Note: Article Tolle R, Univ Munster, Psychiat Klin, Albert Schweitzer Str 11, D-48129 Munster, GERMANY

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