Olfactory thresholds for nicotine and menthol in smokers (abstinent and nonabstinent) and nonsmokers

Nonsmokers and smokers were compared for olfactory sensitivity to two odors associated with cigarettes: nicotine and menthol. Smokers were tested twic e-while nonabstinent, and after 16-20 h of smoking abstinence. Smokers show ed a higher olfactory threshold for nicotine than did nonsmokers, but the s ame threshold for menthol. Furthermore, when the smokers were abstinent, th ey showed a lower olfactory threshold for nicotine than when they were nona bstinent, but again, the same threshold for menthol. These results suggest a nicotine specific olfactory deficit in smokers that is reduced during abs tinence. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.