Nicotine gum withdrawal and migraine headaches.

Some abstinent smokers develop withdrawal symptoms when they stop using nicotine gum or when placebo is substituted. The present report describes a patient who suffered from severe migraine headaches after sudden discontinuation of nicotine gum. It has been suggested that physical dependence may be a cause of behavioral dependence on nicotine gum. Physicians should emphasize the need for gradual reduction of nicotine gum.