What is Smoking Addiction?

Smoking addiction, also known as nicotine dependence, is a chronic condition characterized by the inability to stop using tobacco despite the harm it causes. Nicotine is highly addictive, and repeated use can lead to physical dependence and cravings, making it difficult for individuals to quit. Smoking is linked to a wide range of health issues, including lung disease, cardiovascular problems, and cancer, and remains a leading cause of preventable death worldwide.

How is Brain Health Related to Smoking Addiction?

Nicotine affects brain health by altering the release of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, which is responsible for feelings of pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain becomes reliant on nicotine to release dopamine, creating a cycle of addiction. This dependency rewires the brain's reward system, making it difficult to quit smoking without addressing the neurological changes that have occurred.

Treating Smoking Addiction Through a Neurological Approach

At Brain Health Chicago, we treat smoking addiction with a focus on resetting the brain’s reward system. Our approach combines medication-assisted treatment (MAT), which includes nicotine replacement therapy and medications like varenicline, with behavioral therapies that help rewire the brain's response to cravings. Advanced interventions, such as neurofeedback, are also available to support long-term smoking cessation.

TMS for Smoking Cessation is currently FDA Approved for those struggling with nicotine addiction.