Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence
Six questions assessing nicotine dependence severity and guiding pharmacologic support for smoking cessation.
Updated · Methodology
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