American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) Practice Exam 2026 - Free ABPN Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct choice indicates that irritable behavior is a common symptom associated with nicotine withdrawal, making it an unlikely answer to the question.

Nicotine withdrawal can trigger various physical and psychological symptoms due to the body's adjusted response to the absence of nicotine, the addictive substance found in tobacco products. Irritability is frequently reported during withdrawal, reflecting the body's adaptation to the loss of nicotine stimulation, which had previously alleviated feelings of stress and anxiety.

In contrast, bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate, is not typically associated with nicotine withdrawal. Instead, increased heart rate is often observed during withdrawal due to increased anxiety and stress. Increased appetite often accompanies nicotine withdrawal as many individuals experience cravings for oral stimulation that smoking previously provided, prompting them to eat more. Somnolence or drowsiness can also occur as the body readjusts to the absence of nicotine, which is a stimulant.

Thus, the assertion that irritability is NOT a symptom of nicotine withdrawal is incorrect, while it is incorrect to classify bradycardia, increased appetite, and somnolence as standard indications of nicotine withdrawal.