NICOTINE DEPENDENCE AND WITHDRAWAL IN ALCOHOLIC AND NONALCOHOLIC EVER-SMOKERS

We compared nicotine dependence and withdrawal in male alcoholic and c ontrol ever-smokers, controlling for relevant demographic and clinical variables. Alcoholics were more likely to meet criteria for moderate or severe nicotine dependence and endorse more nicotine dependence sym ptoms. Symptoms reported more frequently by alcoholics included: (a) u sing nicotine in larger amounts or over a longer time than intended; ( b) continued use despite problems caused or exacerbated by nicotine; ( c) marked tolerance; and (d) experiencing characteristic nicotine with drawal symptoms. Alcoholics also smoked more heavily. Other than ''hea daches,'' and ''decreased heart rate,'' alcoholics consistently endors ed nicotine withdrawal symptoms at a higher rate. After controlling fo r demographic and clinical variables and level of nicotine dependence, only ''feel depressed'' differed significantly between groups. Our re search supports previous findings suggesting that nicotine dependence is more severe lit those with a history of alcohol dependence. As a re sult, alcoholics may experience greater discomfort from nicotine withd rawal upon smoking cessation. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Inc.