In simple words: Nicotine dependence, also called tobacco addiction, is when you can't stop using tobacco products even though you know they're harmful. You might feel anxious, irritable, or have trouble sleeping if you try to quit.

Nicotine dependence, also known as tobacco dependence, refers to the inability to stop using tobacco products which contain nicotine even though aware of its harmful effects.Physical and/or mental symptoms occur upon abrupt withdrawal of the substance.Nicotine is the most addictive chemical in tobacco. It can be absorbed through the skin and the tissues lining the mouth, nose, and lungs. Nicotine reaches the bloodstream and quickly circulates to the brain where it indirectly increases dopamine. Cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product. Other tobacco products include electronic cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, bidis, cigars, pipes, hookah, and chewing tobacco.

Example 1: A 45-year-old patient reports smoking a pack of cigarettes a day for the past 20 years and expresses a desire to quit but has been unsuccessful in previous attempts. They experience strong cravings, irritability, and difficulty concentrating when they try to reduce their nicotine intake. This patient would be diagnosed with nicotine dependence (F17)., A 25-year-old patient presents with symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.Upon further questioning, they admit to vaping nicotine multiple times a day.They report feeling restless and irritable when they haven't vaped for a few hours. This scenario indicates nicotine dependence (F17)., A 60-year-old patient with a history of COPD continues to smoke despite physician advice and worsening respiratory symptoms.They acknowledge the health risks but state they are unable to quit due to intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This patient exhibits nicotine dependence (F17).

Documentation should include the type of tobacco use (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, etc.), frequency and amount of use, duration of use, previous quit attempts, and withdrawal symptoms experienced. Any related health conditions (e.g., lung disease, cardiovascular disease) should also be documented.

** The ICD-10-CM code F17 is a billable code used to specify a diagnosis of nicotine dependence. It's important to document the severity of nicotine dependence, any complications, and the remission status if applicable.