Nicotine withdrawal: understanding what happens when you stop smoking
Stopping smoking sets off a series of physical and psychological reactions known as nicotine withdrawal. Knowing what lies ahead, and for how long, makes a real difference: most relapses happen because a symptom was not anticipated. This page describes the stages of quitting, the help available and how Reset Laser fits in.
What is nicotine withdrawal?
Nicotine withdrawal is the period during which the body gets used to functioning without nicotine again.
Inhaled nicotine reaches the brain within seconds and activates receptors that trigger a release of dopamine. When the supply stops, these receptors are left waiting: this mismatch is what produces the feeling of craving.
Two forms of dependence overlap, and they do not ease at the same pace.
Physical dependence
Linked to nicotine, it fades within a few weeks.
Psychological and behavioural dependence
Linked to the gestures, rituals and situations associated with smoking, it takes longer.
This distinction matters because it explains why willpower alone is rarely enough, and why a past failure says nothing about your ability to succeed.
Withdrawal symptoms and how long they last
These are the effects most frequently reported after stopping smoking.
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Sleep problems
- Poor concentration
- Increased appetite
- Intense but brief cravings
Their intensity usually peaks in the first few days, then decreases. Occasional cravings, however, can come back long afterwards, triggered by a specific context: a break at work, a coffee, a night out. They last a few minutes and pass, even without a cigarette.
We look at these reactions in more detail in our articles on nicotine withdrawal symptoms and on how long withdrawal lasts.
Help available to stop smoking
Several approaches exist side by side, and they are not mutually exclusive.
Nicotine replacement products
Patches, gum, lozenges, sprays and inhalers deliver nicotine without combustion. Stop-smoking medicines are also available on prescription.
In France, reimbursed at 65% on prescription, with no annual cap since 2019 [1]
Behavioural support
One-to-one or by phone, it works on automatic habits and high-risk situations.
Offered free of charge in France by the public service Tabac Info Service
Non-conventional approaches
Including laser auricular reflexology. They are aimed at people looking for an alternative to medication.
Not covered by the Assurance Maladie (French national health insurance) [2]
None of these approaches replaces a conversation with your GP if you are already under medical care.
The support offered in our centres
Reset Laser supports people who want to free themselves from tobacco through laser auricular reflexology: the stimulation of reflex points on the ear with a soft, low-intensity laser. The session lasts about an hour and is non-invasive, needle-free and medication-free.
The method targets physical dependence. The psychological side is a matter of preparation and support, and this is exactly where the personalised 12 months of support we offer comes in, with a free support session if you relapse.
This commitment relates to the means provided and is not a promise of results, as success also depends on each client’s personal determination.
Pricing
Transparent pricing, no subscription, with twelve months of support. Choose your country to see the price in your currency.
Prices shown for France · in euros (€)
Solo
- One session of auricular reflexology with a laser
- About one hour
- Personal support for twelve months
- Support session offered in case of relapse
Group
2 people minimum
- One session of auricular reflexology with a laser
- About one hour per person
- Personal support for twelve months
- Support session offered in case of relapse
Companies
- One session of auricular reflexology with a laser
- About one hour per person
- Personal support for twelve months
- Support session offered in case of relapse
Reimbursement
Up to 100 % depending on your complementary health cover, on an itemised invoice, with no public health service paperwork.
How reimbursement worksPayment is made at the centre on the day of the session; no deposit is required when booking.
Contraindications
As a precaution, the method cannot be offered to people in any of the following situations.
Situations that rule out the session
- Pregnant women, at any stage of pregnancy
- People with a pacemaker or an active implanted electronic device
- People undergoing intensive medical care (active chemotherapy or radiotherapy)
- People who are photosensitive or taking photosensitising medication
- Minors without parental consent
Sources
- Assurance Maladie (ameli.fr), Stopping smoking: what reimbursement for nicotine replacement products? (in French), accessed 06/08/2026. ameli.fr
- Tabac Info Service (Santé publique France), Coverage of the cost of a laser session to stop smoking (in French), accessed 06/08/2026. tabac-info-service.fr
Go further
Discover the method in detail, or find the centre nearest to you to book an appointment.