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.
Keywords: Brain atrophy, Cognitive decline, Depression, Neurodevelopment, Oxidative stress.
