Nicotine

Nicotine is present in the tobacco products. Once smoked, nicotine immediately reaches the brain and binds with nicotinic receptors causing damage to the brain cells. The adolescent brain is especially very sensitive to products such as e-cigarettes, nicotine, and tobacco. Chronic nicotine exposure causes permanent brain damage and cognitive decline. Interestingly there are reports on the use of nicotine and its effects on the epigenetic changes in the brain. These kinds of changes may prepare the brain for further abuse of various illegal drugs. As a result of chronic nicotine exposure brain infarcts, white matter hyperintensities, brain atrophy, and dementia are also known to occur. Neurodevelopment in children is potentially harmed due to exposure to nicotine and nicotinic products. This is due to the inflammation, atherosclerosis, and oxidative stress to the neuronal cells. Pregnant mothers and people who are at risk of developing neurodegenerative disease need to be forbidden from using nicotine. Nicotine can be dangerous when taken with alcohol as it can lead to depression and neurocognitive decline. This chapter addresses the effects of nicotine on the adolescent and adult brain.