Tobacco abstinence in 50 smokers increased DSM-III withdrawal symptoms, causing distress similar to psychiatric outpatients, though greater discomfort did not lower smoking cessation rates.
Observational (n=50)
What are the valid signs and symptoms of tobacco withdrawal in smokers undergoing cessation?
Tobacco withdrawal produces a distinct syndrome of psychological and physical symptoms, including bradycardia and increased hunger, with distress levels comparable to psychiatric outpatients.
To test the validity, magnitude, and clinical significance of the signs and symptoms of tobacco withdrawal defined by DSM-III, both observed and reported signs and symptoms were measured in 50 smokers during two days of ad lib smoking and then during the first four days of abstinence. Observer and subject ratings of the DSM-III symptoms of craving for tobacco, irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and restlessness increased after cessation. In addition, bradycardia, impatience, somatic complaints, insomnia, increased hunger, and increased eating occurred after cessation. The frequency and intensity of these symptoms varied across subjects; however, the average distress from tobacco withdrawal was similar to that observed in psychiatric outpatients. Subjects who had more withdrawal discomfort were more tolerant to the cardiovascular effects of nicotine. Subjects who had more withdrawal discomfort did not have a lower rate of smoking cessation.
John R. Hughes (Sat,) conducted a observational in Tobacco withdrawal (n=50). Tobacco abstinence vs. Ad lib smoking was evaluated on Signs and symptoms of tobacco withdrawal defined by DSM-III. Tobacco abstinence in 50 smokers increased DSM-III withdrawal symptoms, causing distress similar to psychiatric outpatients, though greater discomfort did not lower smoking cessation rates.