Q: I am suffering from depression caused by chemical imbalance. Though, I have recovered more than 75%, sometimes, very rarely, the depressive episode returns with a relatively less degree. My treatment is on. Can I continue with tobacco in the ongoing treatment or is it safe to have it after treatment? I would be very grateful to you, if you could kindly clear the doubt in my mind.

A:I cannot give you a direct answer to your question about the use of tobacco while or after being treated for depression. However, what I can tell you, in general, is that the nicotine in tobacco is a stimulant to the brain. It provides a brief boost to the depressed brain, which is why depressed people are more prone to tobacco addiction. The problem with tobacco use is not that it interferes with medication for depression. The problem is that is highly addictive, and it can seriously damage the heart, lungs, and other organs of the body. A depressed person should consider the negative health effects of smoking when deciding to stop or continue.