[European Medical Association Smoking or Health (EMASH)--consensus on smoking cessation: guidelines for physicians].

The present study summarizes the latest scientific findings on smoking cessation and the various therapeutic possibilities. The guidelines presented here were compiled by the experts of EMASH (European Medical Association Smoking or Health). Accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment of nicotine dependence is essential for achieving sustained abstinence. Diagnostic procedures including the Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) and various modes of nicotine replacement therapy (chewing gum, plaster, nasal spray and inhaler) are described. New symptoms of nicotine dependence (nocturnal sleep disturbing nicotine craving, nicotine pre-abstinence syndrome), that permit a more precise diagnosis, are discussed.