What Is It?

The main ingredient in tobacco is nicotine, a very addictive stimulant, even more addictive than heroin or cocaine. Tobacco is usually smoked in cigarettes, cigars or pipes. It is also found in snuff and chewing tobacco.

Cigarettes, in addition to nicotine, contain over 400 different ingredients, many of them toxic. These include arsenic, carbon monoxide, formaldehyde (an embalming agent), hydrogen cyanide and ammonia.

Short-Term Effects of Smoking

• Increased pulse rate and blood pressure
• Reduced appetite
• Can make the user feel calmer
• First-time users may feel nauseous or dizzy

Long-Term Effects of Smoking

• Addiction
• Coughing or breathing problems
• Bad breath
• Discolored teeth and skin
• Emphysema
• Increased risk of lung cancer, heart disease, circulatory problems, cervical cancer and bronchitis

If You Want To Quit

• You aren't in this alone! Tell your friends and family you want to quit, and get their support.
• Avoid the temptation. Don't go into stores that sell cigarettes, and avoid places where you know other people will be smoking.
• Try medication. Many gums, patches and other remedies are available over-the-counter. Other medications, such as buprion, can be prescribed by a doctor.
• Cigarettes are expensive. Take the money you used to spend on cigarettes and spend it on something else you enjoy.
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