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Fizza Mahmood
29 Oct 2024
Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that affects the body in various ways.
Nicotine is a plant that is a naturally occurring chemical that contains nitrogen. It is a highly addictive stimulant found in cigarettes, tobacco plants, and products. Low amounts are also present in tomatoes, eggplants, potatoes, and green pepper plants.
The receptors that nicotine binds to are called nicotinic-cholinergic receptors, and since it's an agonist, it means it binds to the receptor to create a response. These receptors are present in the brain, in nerves and muscles, and in the adrenal gland. They only receive specific neurotransmitters like dopamine, beta-endorphin, and serotonin, which regulate pleasure, mood, and emotion.
Smoking cigarettes causes dopamine release, which allows one to feel pleasure. The pleasure is just for a few minutes, followed by the heart rate, constriction of arteries, and high blood pressure. Once the effect is over, the body feels side effects like depression, tiredness, and cravings.
Nicotine is a stimulant; hence, when inhaled, it quickly reaches the brain within seconds. In the brain, it will bind to acetylcholine receptors, releasing neurotransmitters that are associated with pleasure and reward. The dopamine release is a key factor in addictiveness, hence it reinforces the behaviour of smoking or vaping.
It also helps enhance concentration, memory, and cognitive performance, but it's only short-term. The feeling can be so comforting that it can lead to dependence, making it difficult to stop smoking despite knowing the health risks.
Tobacco smoke has several effects on the cardiovascular system. The substance increases heart rate and blood pressure by stimulating the release of adrenaline. Over time, this can lead to the narrowing of blood vessels, which reduces oxygen supply to the heart and other tissues.
With the long-term effects of nicotine, other conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart attacks, stroke, and atherosclerosis are at increased risk.
Nicotine has been known to be a carcinogen, and though it is not a direct carcinogen, the numerous harmful chemicals released into the respiratory system cause cancer. Smoking tobacco has toxic chemicals that can cause inflammation and damage to lung tissue, leading to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic bronchitis.
Smoking, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices are all risk factors for lung disease and lung cancer.
Nicotine affects the gastrointestinal system by increasing the production of stomach acid and altering motility. This can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, and an increase in peptic ulcers. Furthermore, it can affect the liver's metabolism of drugs and potentially lead to interactions with medicines.
Nicotine influences the endocrine system through the release of hormones. It can stimulate the release of adrenaline and cortisol, the hormones involved in the body's stress response. With chronic use, the balance can be disrupted, potentially leading to certain disorders.
It can have significant effects on our reproductive system. In men, it can reduce sperm count and motility, which could lead to decreased fertility. In women, nicotine can interfere with the menstrual cycle and hormone levels, affecting fertility.
For pregnant women, nicotine use causes a higher risk of complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and some developmental issues in children.
Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Smoking has been known to impair the function of immune cells, reduce the effectiveness of vaccines, and slow the healing process.
Nicotine poisoning refers to toxicity related to nicotine products. Having too much nicotine causes toxicity and can cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Nicotine addiction is caused by constant intake, however, the lethal amounts of nicotine can be 30-60mg based on individual body absorption. It is rare and usually requires treatment at the hospital.
The best way to prevent nicotine poisoning is to quit cigarette smoking, vaping, and other products. However, the risk can be minimised by protecting the skin, disposing of the product properly, and storing it properly to prevent children from accessing it.
Quitting smoking is a life-changing journey toward better health. It begins with identifying your reasons, understanding withdrawal symptoms, and recognizing smoking triggers. While some quit abruptly ("cold turkey"), others gradually reduce smoking. Options like nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), prescription medication, and professional counseling can provide essential support. Individuals should consult a doctor to help them with their quitting journey.
Fizza is a registered pharmacist with APHRA and has been with Simple Online Doctor since 2023. With a Bachelor of Pharmacy and 8 plus years of experience as a pharmacist, Fizza has a strong passion to improve patient care via enhancing the quality and continuity of care delivered through digital health platforms.
Tyson is a clinical pharmacist in charge of the development and improvement of patient services. He provides clinical support to our team of healthcare professionals and ensures patient health and wellbeing are at the centre of all our services.
Last Reviewed : 29/10/2024
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