Cessation of Substance Dependent Behaviors

Fagerstrom Scale


A score of 6 or greater from the following 8 questions indicates a high probability of being tolerant to nicotine, suggesting that cessation will be accompanied by physical withdrawal symptoms.

How soon after you wake up do you smoke your first cigarette?
(a) within 30 minutes - 1 point
(b) after 30 minutes - 0 points

Do you find it difficult to refrain from smoking in places where it is forbidden, such as the library, theater or a doctor's office?
(a) yes - 1 point
(b) no - 0 points

Which of all the cigarettes you smoke in a day is the most satisfying one?
(a) the first one in the morning - 1 point
(b) any other - 0 points

How many cigarettes a day do you smoke?
(a) 1-15 - 0 points
(b) 16-25 - 1 point
(c) 26 or more - 2 points

Do you smoke more during the morning than during the rest of the day?
(a) yes - 1 point
(b) no - 0 points

Do you smoke when you are so ill that you are in bed for most of the day?
(a) yes - 1 point
(b) no - 0 points

Does the brand you smoke have a high, medium or low nicotine content?
(a) 0.9 mg or less - 0 points
(b) 1.0 to 1.2 mg - 1 point
(c) 1.3 mg or more - 2 points

How often do you inhale the smoke from your cigarette?
(a) never - 0 points
(b) sometimes - 1 point
(c) always - 2 points

from Fagerstrom, KO. Addictive Behavior 3;235-241.


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Caring for the Older Adult I

copyright University of Florida Geriatric Education Center, 2001