@drsermedmezher: POV- You’re Quitting “Cold Turkey”. Sources- laraannn on TT PMID 27009521 Quitting nicotine cold turkey can trigger withdrawal symptoms because the body has adapted to the constant presence of nicotine and the dopamine surges it brings. Nicotine stimulates receptors in the brain that release dopamine—a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure, motivation, and reward. Over time, the brain adjusts by reducing its own baseline dopamine activity and increasing the number of nicotine receptors. This means the body begins to rely on regular nicotine hits just to feel “normal.” When someone suddenly stops using nicotine, those receptors are left unstimulated, and dopamine levels temporarily drop. This imbalance leads to the classic withdrawal symptoms: irritability, cravings, restlessness, low mood, trouble concentrating, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms aren’t a sign of weakness—they’re simply the brain recalibrating after being conditioned to expect nicotine. With time, the receptor levels and dopamine pathways return to a more natural balance, which is why withdrawal improves the longer someone stays nicotine-free. #nicotine #vaping #quitsmoking

Dr Sermed Mezher MBChB MRes

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Saturday 29 November 2025 18:55:13 GMT