Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence
Six questions assessing nicotine dependence severity and guiding pharmacologic support for smoking cessation.
About this calculator
The Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) measures the severity of nicotine dependence. Developed by Heatherton et al. (Br J Addict, 1991) as a revision of the original Fagerström Tolerance Questionnaire. Six questions on smoking habits: time to first cigarette after waking, frequency, situations, count, reluctance to quit. Maximum 10 points. Interpretation. 0-2 – minimal dependence, NRT usually not needed. 3-4 – low, behavioral therapy may suffice for quit attempts. 5-6 – moderate, NRT indicated (14 mg patch or 2 mg gum). 7-10 – severe, combination 21 mg patch plus a fast-acting form (gum/spray), or varenicline 1 mg twice daily for 12 weeks. Clinical use. Quit-strategy selection. Probability of success – higher scores require longer pharmacotherapy (at least 8-12 weeks) and more intensive behavioral support. In pregnancy, severe dependence justifies NRT (low-dose patch) after individual risk assessment; varenicline and bupropion are contraindicated. Limitations. Does not address e-cigarettes and heated tobacco – modified PS-ECDI is validated. Does not separate physical from behavioral dependence – some low-FTND patients keep smoking due to stress, depression, social context. Not used for smoking blends or hookah.
Source
Formula version: heatherton-1991-v1