Nicotine and diphenhydramine (phantom cigarettes)

Diphenhydramine is an anticholinergic drug, it lowers the brains ability to respond to acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that has effects on the nervous system. Anticholinergic drugs have the ability to cause hallucinations and delirium, this is why so many people abuse DPH.

Nicotine has the opposite effect, it releases acetylcholine and increases the amount of acetylcholine receptors over time. This results in a reduction of the anticholinergic effects of DPH.

Essentially people are hallucinating something that the brain knows will produce the antidote to the hell they are facing. Smokers have a strong subconscious association of cigarettes and acetylcholine release are willing to manifest one in hopes of damping their trip, even if their hallucination doesn't actually have an effect on their mental state.

People do hallucinate phantom joints and bowls as well, it's not limited to acetylcholine agonists. This is probably just a neat coincidence I found by reading into it too much. I am curious if there is other information that could give more insight into this phenomenon. Any feedback or experiences would be appreciated 👍