1) Smoking is an addiction caused by nicotine binding to acetylcholine receptors in the brain. This results in the release of dopamine and creates dependence.
2) Smoking cessation requires motivation, easing withdrawal symptoms, and preventing relapse as smoking is a chronic disease similar to other disorders.
3) Effective smoking cessation approaches include counseling and pharmacotherapy. Combining the two gives the best results, such as using nicotine replacements and drugs like varenicline.