Withdrawal & Recovery

Nicotine Withdrawal Timeline: What to Expect Day by Day

March 28, 2026
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Quick Summary

  1. 1Nicotine blood levels drop sharply within 2-4 hours of your last cigarette and are substantially cleared by 72 hours
  2. 2Peak withdrawal symptoms hit at 48-72 hours. For most people, Day 2 is the hardest
  3. 3Physical symptoms (irritability, headaches, restlessness) resolve within 2-4 weeks for the majority
  4. 4Psychological cravings persist for months but decrease in frequency and intensity over time
  5. 5Your Fagerstrom dependence score affects how intense and how long your early withdrawal feels
  6. 6NRT started on Day 1 significantly reduces withdrawal severity
  7. 7If symptoms feel severe or unusual at any point, consult your GP
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