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Nicotine, derived from the leaves of the tobacco plant, is the active chemical in cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, snuff or snus. In the past, tobacco was commonly smoked as ‘roll-your-owns’ or pre-made cigarettes (AKA Durry, ciggy, rollie, smokes, darts). However, vaping (heating a liquid, usually containing nicotine, to produce a vapour) has also become popular in the last few years.

Nicotine brings feelings of relaxation within ten seconds, but this lasts only a few minutes, leaving a craving for more to maintain the pleasurable feeling and prevent withdrawal. Used over a long period of time, the smoke from cigarettes can cause severe respiratory and other physical damage.

Important information about tobacco, including its effects, how to be safer and how to cut down

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