Inhaled nicotine reaches the brain within 15 seconds and concentrations in brain tissue remain high for about 2 hours. Nicotine is transformed by oxidation in the liver to conitine which is then excreted in the urine where it can be detected by a laboratory test. In the brain, it activates the dopamine reward system and increases certain neurotranmitters and hormones including norepinephrine, epinephrine , endorphins, and acth/cortisol.. Other activators of the dopamine reward system include opiates, amphetamines, and cocaine.

Don't carry a lighter, matches or cigarettes. Keep all of these smoking reminders out of sight.

If you live with a smoker, ask that person not to smoke in your presence.

Don't focus on what you are missing. Think about the healthier way of life you are gaining.

When you get the urge to smoke, take a deep breath. Hold it for 10 seconds and release it slowly. Repeat this several times until the urge to smoke is gone.

Keep your hands busy. Doodle, play with a pencil or straw, or work on a computer.

Change activities that were connected to smoking. Take a walk or read a book instead of taking a cigarette break.

When you can, avoid places, people and situations associated with smoking. Hang out with non-smokers or go to places that don't allow smoking, such as the movies, museums, shops or libraries.

Don't substitute food or sugar-based products for cigarettes. Eat low-calorie, healthful foods (such as carrot or celery sticks, sugar-free hard candies) or chew gum when the urge to smoke strikes so you can avoid weight gain.

Drink plenty of fluids, but limit alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. They can trigger urges to smoke.

Exercising will help you relax.

Get support for quitting. Tell others about your milestones with pride.

When withdrawal symptoms occur within the first two weeks after quitting, stay in control. Think about your reasons for quitting. Remind yourself that these are signs that your body is healing and getting used to being without cigarettes.

The withdrawal symptoms are only temporary. They are strongest when you first quit but will go away within 10 to 14 days. Remember that withdrawal symptoms are easier to treat than the major diseases that smoking can cause.

You may still have the desire to smoke, since there are many strong associations with smoking. People may associate smoking with specific situations, with a variety of emotions or with certain people in their lives. The best way to overcome these associations is to experience them without smoking.

If you smoke again (called a relapse) do not lose hope. Seventy-five percent of those who quit relapse. Most smokers quit three times before they are successful. If you relapse, don't give up! Plan ahead and think about what you will do next time you get the urge to smoke.