According to MedlinePlus, addiction to nicotine and tobacco is similar to alcohol, cocaine or morphine addictions. Currently, around 50 million American's smoke, advises the website. Nicotine reaches the brain faster than drugs administered intravenously and causes both stimulating and depressant effects. Nicotine addiction is difficult to break because use is associated with many social activities. Still, the American Lung Association states as of 2008 nearly 50 million American's are former smokers. Effects of nicotine happen rapidly; nicotine reaches the brain within 8 seconds of being inhaled, reports the National Institute of Drug Abuse for Teens.
Stimulating Effects
Nicotine enhances the feeling of pleasure and may even decrease episodes of depression or feeling sad. When nicotine is inhaled the brain releases dopamine, a chemical which causes an overall good feeling in the body. A person may feel he can concentrate and is more alert when nicotine is used. The body's blood sugar and insulin production rises when a person's body is exposed to nicotine. Bowel movements, saliva and bronchial secretions also raise, reports MedlinePlus. A person's heart rate and blood pressure also increases when nicotine is used. Additional cardiovascular effects include narrowing of the arteries. Because cigarette smoke includes carbon monoxide, the amount of oxygen in blood is reduced.
Depressant Effects
A person may not feel as hungry when using nicotine. The addictive substance also acts as an appetite suppressant. Many people feel skeptical about quitting smoking because they are afraid they will gain weight. According to a 2004 study by the University of Melbourne, smoking causes loss of appetite, decreased body fat and weight storage. The Tobacco-Related Disease Research Council states nicotine may also decreases taste sensation making food less appealing.
Withdrawal Effects
Symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include irritability, anxiety and restlessness. A person may feel hungry and intensely crave smoking a cigarette or chewing tobacco. Headaches are common when nicotine withdrawal occurs. A person who smoked longer and more cigarettes will most likely to suffer greater from withdrawal symptoms. MedlinePlus reports withdrawal effects are both physical and psychological. Withdrawal symptoms start about two to three hours after the last use of tobacco and peek in two to three days, according to MedlinePlus.
