How Nicotine Works?

The complexity of the adult human brain is staggering. It is an organ so fine that its operation and architecture are difficult to describe. However, after years of research, it has been possible to identify the main information and communication pathways of the brain.

The adult brain weighs approximately 1.35 kilograms, and has between two billion and three billion neurons, or nerve cells; each of them is connected to one or more neurons, resulting in billions of synapses (connections).

Neurons communicate with each other through electrical and chemical stimuli. When an action potential (electrical discharge wave) travels through the trunk of a neuron, the cell membrane depolarizes, which causes the emission of a flow of ions, such as potassium and sodium, that travel through the channels of the cell membrane.

Next, nerve endings in the intersynaptic space (the space between two neurons) release packets of neurotransmitters, which trigger the action of receptors on the next neuron in the sequence. Something similar to a very sophisticated and effective chain on a microscopic scale.

The functioning of the human brain is a symphony. For it to sound good, all instruments have to act in harmony. The main neurotransmitters; Acetylcholine, serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine work in coordination with other neurotransmitters that have complementary functions and that act to counteract or promote various vital actions.

Nicotine is known to have important effects on acetylcholine (nicotinic) receptors and to affect dopamine receptors as well. These, in turn, will be involved in the brain's wellness system.

Part of the addiction generated by nicotine and other substances is due to the fact that their consumption activates the gratification system of the brain.

Drugs such as nicotine are highly rewarding for the brain thanks to their properties that: relax, distract, provide energy and suppress the appetite and, consequently, make the consumer want more.


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