Drugs Information: Tobacco

Substance: Nicotine

Category: Stimulant

Legal Status :

On 29 March 2004, section 47 of the Public Health (Tobacco) Acts, 2002 and 2004 came into force to protect third parties, such as workers, from the ill-effects of exposure to second-hand smoke. 

Source: http://www.otc.ie/communication_smokefree.asp

The Children's Act in 1908 introduced a prohibition on the sale of cigarettes to minors. As the evidence grew the scope of tobacco control legislation broadened considerably and now encompasses: prohibitions and restrictions on advertising and sponsorship; restrictions on the sale and marketing of tobacco products; smoking prohibitions and restrictions; labelling and health warning provisions; and product specification and testing.

Source: http://www.otc.ie/legislation_national.asp

Short-term effects :

Tobacco smoking involves the inhalation of tar, nicotine, carbon monoxide and other gases. Nicotine is a stimulant drug which increases pulse rate and blood pressure. Regular smokers often find smoking combats anxiety and stress, helps concentration and alleviates boredom. Some also find it suppresses appetite. First time users often feel sick, dizzy and suffer headache.

Tolerance develops quickly to the effects of nicotine so more is needed to get an effect. Most people who smoke become dependent and feel restless and anxious if they try to stop. Very few people find they can just have the occasional cigarette. They tend to either smoke a number a day or not smoke at all.

Regular, long term smoking greatly increases the risk of a number of serious diseases including lung and other cancers, heart diseases, bronchitis, bad circulation and ulcers.

Women who smoke cigarettes during pregnancy tend to give birth to babies of smaller birth weight. Smoking whilst taking oral contraceptives ('the pill') increases the risk of heart and circulatory problems.

Scientific / Trade or Slang Name : Tobacco, Nicotine, Fag, Ciggy

Method of use : Inhaled or chewed